Little Free Libraries Serving Vulnerable Kids Are Under Attack

Recent data undeniably shows the impact and necessity of Little Free Libraries (LFLs), yet some groups are attempting to undermine this valuable resource. While a growing wave of book bans is hitting schools and public libraries, Little Free Libraries have been caught in the crossfire of censorship efforts.

A study by Little Free Library and The Education Foundation of Baltimore County Public Schools demonstrates the profound impact of a simple book box. From September to November 2024, researchers surveyed 768 students across eleven schools and two community book boxes. Many of these schools are in neighborhoods where books are scarce and families face significant barriers to reading.

Eight schools were classified as low-income, with most students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. Six schools had a majority of Black, Indigenous, and other students of color. Three schools had large populations of English language learners, and six schools had high numbers of students enrolled in special education programs.

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These are the communities that need books the most, and Little Free Libraries are stepping up to meet that need. The study found critical evidence for how these tiny libraries are making a mighty impact, especially for underserved student groups:

• Low-Income Schools. In schools where 65% or more of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, 62% of children reported reading more when they visit a Little Free Library.
• BIPOC Students. Sixty-three percent of BIPOC students reported reading more in weeks they visit a Little Free Library, compared to 39% of non-BIPOC students.
• English Language Learners (ELLs). ELL students experienced the most significant increase in reading frequency, with 72% reading more in the weeks following their access to a Little Free Library.

The data also shows that kids who visit a Little Free Library read an average of 1.1 additional days per week. Among the surveyed children, 49% report reading more frequently since they started using a Little Free Library. 

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Ninety-two percent of children say they have better access to books because of these little libraries. Even more inspiring, 88% now keep more books at home thanks to the program. 

The study also shows that children are finding books they truly enjoy in Little Free Libraries. Ninety percent discover high-quality books, 87% find books that make them excited to read, and 75% find books with characters they can see themselves in.

And while the research proves that these tiny libraries are making a significant impact in underrepresented communities, they’re still being targeted by censorship efforts.

Salt Lake City’s Democratic state representative, Sahara Hayes, was accused of violating Utah law when she stocked Little Free Libraries with banned books. A group called Students Against Censorship also stocked Little Free Libraries with banned books in Washington County, Utah, and was urged by critics to face criminal charges for these actions.  

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Yet despite these attacks, these tiny libraries are fighting back in a big way. Little Free Library has taken a firm stand against censorship by creating a book ban map. Not only does it help readers find the nearest LFL, but it also shows which states have been hit the hardest by book bans. Readers can use the interactive map to discover new Little Free Libraries in their area, then use LFL’s mobile app to get directions to the locations. 

You can help fight these censorship attacks and keep kids reading. Donate today to support libraries and sign our petition to fight book bans across America. 

Every voice and every dollar counts in the fight for literacy and freedom. Stand with us to defend the right to read.

Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn more about our work on behalf of libraries. 

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