The simple joy of giving

Natalie writes about being grateful to have many Little Free Library book-exchange boxes in her neighborhood. I am happy to be surrounded by such literary neighbors and I hope that this movement continues to spread. We have a few here in Sweden as well and it always makes me happy when I see them. More common here, though, are the ones put up by anonymous, book-loving neighbors. You see them at bus and boat stops, parking lots, or sometimes in the middle of nowhere. When I see one, I often snap a photo (I’ve added a few below) because I think it’s such a lovely thing. I also carry a couple of books in my car and trade them for something new when the opportunity presents itself. It’s such a joy, much more so than buying a brand-new copy in the store. To me, this movement is about more than trading books. It’s a sign of the good in people. It’s not about claim, fame, gain, or ownership. It’s about the simple joy and beauty of giving. It’s proof that “little free” can bring enormous…