On June 10, the Little Free Library launched its Read in Color initiative by unveiling 10 new Little Free Libraries throughout Boston. The initiative was made possible by Little Free Library, 826 Boston, and Candlewick Press.
According to a press release, “designed to promote equity and inclusion, Read in Color brings Little Free Library book-sharing boxes and diverse books to readers of all ages.
Ten new Little Free Libraries will be established across Boston, each filled with diverse books that provide perspectives on racism and social justice, and amplify BIPOC, LGBTQ and other representative voices.”
In Jamaica Plain, Read in Color Little Free Library boxes can be found at the James W. Hennigan School, at the Boston Teachers Union School, and in Egleston Square in Roxbury, one is located at 826 Boston on Washington St. Readers are encouraged to “take a book, share a book” as part of the organization’s mission to increase global access to books.
“We are excited to bring our Read in Color program, along with its diverse books, to the wonderful city of Boston,” Greig Metzger, Executive Director of Little Free Library, said in a video celebrating the launch.
Acting Mayor Kim Janey said in the video, “I’m excited about the launch of Read in Color Libraries. 826 Boston, which empowers youth through writing and publishing, worked with the Boston Public Schools to install 10 Little Free Libraries across the City of Boston.” She added that Candlewick Press has donated “one year’s worth of books to stock the libraries.”
Janey continued, “Now, people of all ages can enjoy free books by authors of color, as well as books written by students of 826 Boston. Teaching young people to tell their own stories help to build character and improve language skills. Reading their stories lets them know their voices matter.”
Aside from Candlewick Press, Little Free Library is also purchasing books for the libraries from Frugal Bookstore, the only Black-owned bookstore in the city of Boston, according to the release.
An application process is also available for “stewards” of existing Little Free Library locations for bundles of these books.
Candlewick is also organizing a national giveaway of 100 copies of The “Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person” by Frederick Joseph. Interested readers can enter to win at littlefreelibrary.org/books/.
For more information about the Read in Color Little Free Libraries, visit littlefreelibrary.org/read-in-color/.