COMMUNITY
The Rotary Club of Avalon Park Shares the Joy of Reading Through Expanding Little Free Libraries Nine years ago, the Rotary Club of Avalon Park took a significant step to enrich the community’s cultural and intellectual scene by introducing the very first Little Free Library in Founders Square. Launching this Little Free Library began a journey of discovery, impacting how the community embraces reading and the joy of sharing books.
adding two new libraries near Encore and the Tanja King Boulevard pavilion, and a fourth location will be installed this Spring near Avalon Elementary School. The impact of these Little Free Libraries is significant, especially considering that over 30 million adults in the United States struggle with basic literacy. Early access to books is crucial for children’s literacy development. The more books they have access to, the more likely they are to discover the joy of reading and the vast knowledge that books contain. By providing easy access to books, the Rotary Club of Avalon Park promotes literacy and nurtures future generations of readers and leaders.
A Little Free Library is more than just a box of books. It is part of a global nonprofit movement that aims to increase book access and forge community bonds. These libraries are small, free book exchanges that encourage people to “take a book, return a book.” They are based on the idea that books should be accessible to everyone, fostering a love of reading, sparking creativity, and building connections among neighbors. With over 100,000 such libraries in over 100 countries, millions of books are exchanged each year, significantly impacting literacy and community engagement worldwide. In Avalon Park, the Rotary Club recognized the importance of easy access to books for all community members. “Literacy is not just about reading and writing; it is about understanding, which opens doors to opportunities and better livelihoods,” said Terri Bernhardt, Rotary Club President. “By expanding the Little Free Library Program, we’re not just sharing books; we’re sharing knowledge, dreams, and connections.”
As we look forward to the expansion of the Little Free Libraries in Avalon Park, the Rotary Club invites everyone in the community to participate. Whether by borrowing a book or donating one, every interaction with these libraries helps. For more information about the Little Free Library initiative, visit littlefreelibrary.org.
You are invited to join them each week at the Avalon Pavilion at The flagship library in Founders Square is a testament to the 7:30 a.m. located at 13401 Tanya King Blvd. Meet your neighbors, success of this initiative. Every day, people from all walks of life — find out what Rotary is about and how you can Create Hope in the children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly — gather to share stories World. For more information go HERE. Complimentary breakfast and knowledge. The club has since continued this momentum by and inspiring guest speakers!
