When you are done with that book, bring it back if you like -- and then you can take another book.
There are no time limits or late fees. And you can always bring a new or gently used book or two to share.
Northeast Community College has become the latest place in the region to offer Little Library services since the concept was brought to this part of the country a little more than 10 years ago.
On Saturday, as part of the 50th anniversary of the college, a ribbon cutting took place to dedicate the new Little Library, which is on the north end of the Burkhardt Residence Hall.
Lisa Guenther, early childhood education instructor, said the effort to bring the Little Library to campus was a collaborative effort. That included a Hawks Stress Management Innovative Mini Grant written by instructors Brandon Keller, Tee Bush, Stacey Aldag and Guenther.
“This Little Library is a free, always open place where anyone on campus can take a book to read, return it to the Little Library when it is finished, or share it with a friend or relative. It is also a place where you can share books you are finished reading and enjoying so others can read and enjoy them,” Guenther said.
The initial books in the Little Library have been donated by several people, including President Leah Barrett, faculty, staff and students. Donations are always welcome by contacting Guenther, who is the adviser for the campus Early Childhood Education Club, which maintains the book selection.
Early childhood education, building construction and welding students, along with their instructors, were part of the project. Physical plant directors Brandon McLean and Tony Chambers were also part of the project.
Reading has many educational, social, stress relief and sleep benefits, Guenther said, before quoting Napoleon Bonaparte, who once said, “Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world.”
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Lisa Guenther, Early Childhood instructor, discusses the benefits of reading prior to Saturday’s ribbon cutting. (Northeast Community College.)
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Leah Barrett, president of Northeast Community College, uses the big scissors to lead a group cutting the ribbon to dedicate the opening of the Little Library on campus. (Northeast Community College.)