The “JP Free Tiny Library,” a book-swapping box that has become a popular South Street attraction, was destroyed during a Dec. 26-27 storm. But it was back in business by Dec. 28 with a few more bolts and wooden bracing and a fresh stock of books.
The house-shaped wooden box at South and Bardwell streets apparently fell apart due to the impact of heavy wind and rain. The books packed inside were soaked.
The anonymously created “library” appeared early this month and bears a motto inviting passers-by to “take a book, leave a book.” It sits atop a City streetlight control box. The mini library appears to have been inspired by a Wisconsin-based movement called the Little Free Library (littlefreelibrary.org).
Updated version: This story has been updated with news of the mini library’s resurrection.