It seems like everyone is offering free books these days.  I’ve noticed small libraries cropping up in what look like large mail boxes.  The first one of these that I saw was created by the uber- talented author Heather Davis of Bartlesville who also happens to be an English teacher.  You would think she gets enough kids during the school year, but she set one up for the summer to encourage them to continue to read.  Such commitment.

The one in the picture has been around for a long time. It is located outside my doctor’s office in Enid near the pharmacy housed in the same building.  I spent some time with a new Nora Roberts the other morning waiting to have blood drawn.  I thought about bringing it home with me to visit for a while, but had several on the bedside table waiting on me. As an author, I am always thrilled if people read – no matter what they read or where they get them; so this idea struck a chord in me. Many thanks to     Betty Davis and her brilliant idea.  I don’t know Betty, but I wonder if she is related to Heather? I know of another on in the small town of Ames, OK in a quickshop.  People love books.

The earliest lending libraries were begun in Europe around 1586.  Ben Franklin brought the idea to America in 1731 and the Carnegie system of libraries was built between 1883 and 1929.  I’m dating myself when I mention that I remember the Bookmobile coming around my neighborhood during the summer.  My sisters and I were always ready for new books when it made its appearance between school years.

But, wherever you get your books – or your kids’ books – read, read, read!  The more you read, the more you will love it.  And you might just learn something!

But, don’t forget to share.