Gurnee couple starts Free Little Library in Prairie Oaks Park
Submitted by Gurnee Park District
Greg and Amy Alderson, teachers by profession, have made the most out of their summer vacation with the recent unveiling of a Free Little Library located in their neighborhood’s Prairie Oaks Park.
The idea emerged earlier this year when Amy read an article in the Chicago Tribune featuring the concept by Littlefreelibrary.org.
“I was enchanted by the idea,” Amy said. “Having taught English and literature for many years at Grayslake North High School, I had faith in such a system as I have offered a free, unmonitored library in my classroom for several years with great success.”
The idea began to materialize when she involved her husband, Greg, a retired fine arts teacher, to plan the construction of the library. The wooden house was created with little expense by recycling a kitchen cabinet and doors found at the local Habitat for Humanity store. Amy painted the house with leaf designs to blend with its surroundings.
Prior to installation, the Aldersons contacted Jeff Reinhard, superintendent of parks for the Gurnee Park District for approval. He not only embraced the idea, but hoped to see the idea grow to the 27 other park locations in the area.
“There is a growing movement in the parks and recreation industry to bring new and innovative activities to the outdoor environment and to provide opportunities that allow residents to view parks and open spaces as venues for a variety of life-enhancing activities,” Reinhard said. “It is our hope that the other families or organizations in our community will consider developing little libraries in our other parks.”
With the park district’s approval, the couple then contacted Warren Newport Library District to investigate their interest in supporting the little library with a donation of books. The library jumped at the idea and arranged for a delivery.
“We are proud to support the grass-roots effort of Amy and Greg to bring books into their neighborhood park. We are happy to lend a hand in this partnership to connect readers with books and books with readers. It is another sure sign that books are here to stay” Library Director Stephen Bero said.
The library is stocked with books for children and adults that can be borrowed on the honor system.
“If there is a book that speaks to a reader, we don’t mind if they decide to keep it. We just ask that they supply the library with an alternative in return,” Amy said.
When asked why Amy decided to embrace the project she replied, “We really love our neighborhood and have so many kids around. The more you love reading, the better you will be at it. Bringing reading opportunities to the community in new and unexpected ways encourages both children and adults to make reading a part of any activity they do. I really hope the idea continues to spread.”
Greg and Amy Alderson have lived with their children in the Gurnee community for 15 years and exemplify giving back not only with this project but their management of the Gurnee Community Garden and involvement with local art galleries and choruses.
Parties interested in building free little libraries in their Gurnee neighborhood park can contact Jeff Reinhard at (847) 623-7788.
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