Little Free Library

by Marcia Losoya

As I walked through the peaceful grounds of St. Joseph's Episcopal Church in Salado, little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey that would touch my heart in profound ways. Meeting with Pam Nelson and Nancy Bullard to learn about the Little Free Library ministry based at the church opened my eyes to the transformative power of literature and community.

Pam and her husband, Doug, penned a proposal to the church in 2015, driven by their shared love for books and a deep-seated desire to make them accessible to all. Pam, a former teacher of children's literature, recognized the pressing need for literacy materials not only within town but also for those living in surrounding areas with limited access to libraries.

Their proposal blossomed into the first Little Free Library location, and since then, the ministry has flourished to encompass six sites across the area. These little cupboards, nestled in safe spots, offer a haven for book lovers and those hungry for knowledge alike. The concept is simple yet powerful: take a book, leave a book, or simply enjoy the joy of reading without any obligation. You can visit one of these libraries at the following locations: St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, Hidden Glen, and Heart & Hands Ministry in Salado, Spin Zone laundromat and the laundromat at Montrose Place in Belton, and the most recent addition at Holland First United Methodist Church in Holland.

Committee members Pam Nelson, Melissa Fletcher, and Nancy Bullard, along with a dedicated team of volunteers, work tirelessly to fill these libraries weekly. Their passion for spreading the importance of literacy is evident in every aspect of their work— from sourcing books at second-hand stores and library sales to curating themed materials for the libraries each month.

But it wasn't until we visited a nearby storage shed, brimming with shelves of books, toys, and games awaiting distribution, that I truly grasped the magnitude of their efforts. As a fellow book lover, it was a moving experience to witness the dedication and love poured into this operation.

Pam spoke highly of the support they've received from the Little Free Library organization, emphasizing the impact it has had on their mission. As our conversation came to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn about this remarkable ministry. The Little Free Library at St. Joseph's Episcopal Church isn't just about books; it's about community, compassion, and the belief that everyone deserves access to the transformative power of reading.

Ways you can help:

Consider donating gently used books small toys, games, or gallon size ziplock storage bags. Donations can be dropped off at St. Joseph’s parish hall or Heart & Hands Food Pantry.

For information on operating your own Little Free Library, please visit littlefreelibrary.org The organization is a valuable resource and offers advice, buildling kits, and is a place to register your library and find other libraries throughout the world.

“I can’t speak to my wife directly as she might find it offensive, given her age” he says to the doc.

“There’s a simple trick you can try to determine her hearing” explains the doctor. “Simply ask her a question at a distance and if she doesn’t hear you, move slightly closer and ask again until she does”.

That night, the husband arrives home and sees his wife in the kitchen cooking. He thinks to himself, “what a perfect opportunity to test her hearing”.

He stands in the doorway of the kitchen and promptly asks;

“What’s for dinner honey?”

No answer. He moves closer.

“What’s for dinner honey?”

Still no answer. He moves even closer.

“What’s for dinner honey?”

Still his wife doesn’t answer. He now sees how serious her hearing problem is. At this point, he is stood right next to his wife.

“What’s for dinner honey?”

His wife finally answers, “For the FOURTH time, we are having chicken!”

Did you know?

In some cities in Texas, you ’ re required to purchase a $5 permit before walking around barefoot.