When I received a Small Neighbourhood Grant, I knew right away that I wanted to create a Little Free Library for my community of Silver Creek in Hope B.C. Our neighbourhood doesn’t have easy access to a public library—it’s about a 30-minute uphill walk—so bringing books closer to home felt important. As someone who works in a library and has always been passionate about literacy, the project felt like a perfect fit.
The library itself has a special story. I purchased it from a retired senior who builds them out of upcycled materials. I loved the idea that Beacon Books not only promotes literacy, but also sustainability and craftsmanship. With the help of my husband and a couple of amazing neighbours, we got it installed in my front yard. One neighbour showed up with a very impressive power tool that made digging the post hole a breeze, while another tracked down cement mix so we could secure it properly. It quickly became a true community effort, filled with laughter and teamwork.
Once the library was standing tall, my kids and I stocked it with books we’d collected over the years, along with a few gems from the local library book sale. To make it even more welcoming, I added a guestbook so visitors could leave notes or recommendations. A wonderful bonus came from the Little Free Library organization itself—they donated a charter sign so Beacon Books is now officially registered and mapped as part of the worldwide network. I love that this makes it easier to find and connects our little neighbourhood library to a much larger community of readers.
The response has been heartwarming. Parents and kids stop by on their way home from the nearby elementary school, neighbours donate and borrow books, and several people have left thoughtful messages in the guestbook. One of my favourite moments has been seeing kids swap books with each other right at the library—proof that it’s already inspiring sharing and connection.
This project reminded me how small ideas can spark something bigger. With the support of my family, neighbours, and the grant, Beacon Books has become more than just a box of books—it’s a beacon of connection, learning, and joy in Silver Creek, Hope B.C.
