Take a book. Share a book.

PARIS—A new chapter in community engagement and literacy has arrived in Paris. On Dec. 2, a Little Free Library was installed at Schwartz Park. Led by Meagan Brinkerhoff, the project is a testament to the power of how simple ideas can inspire connection and a love of reading.

“I hope people gain a love of reading. As a mom and a teacher, I want to always try to instill that love of reading for kids of all ages. If a kid comes up, they can pick a book or two and take it home with them,” she said.

The Little Free Library is a small, weatherproof structure filled with books for all ages. It operates on the “take a book, share a book” principle.

“It’s something I’ve seen a lot. We’ve moved around a lot, and in all of our locations, I’ve bumped into them at parks or outside of school. I always thought it was a neat idea,” Brinkerhoff said.

The Little Free Library also serves as a reminder to the Brinkerhoff family of a cherished family member who lived a life full of passion for reading.

“There’s a plaque on (the library) that reads ‘Happy Reading from Grandma Eleanor.’ She was my mom’s mom and was a huge part of instilling the love of reading into us,” Brinkerhoff explained. “She was a life long, one-room-schoolhouse (student), reader; a very, very well-read woman.”

Installation of the library began just before Thanksgiving, with the post being set one day and the library top mounted a couple of days later. The box itself was purchased directly through the Little Free Library program, which registers it with its network of charters.

The Little Free Library movement has gained traction worldwide, with thousands of charming boxes popping up in neighborhoods, schools and parks. Because the library in Schwartz Park is registered with the program, it appears on the Litte Free Library map, making it a potential destination for travelers and book lovers.

“If somebody likes to try to find (Little Free Libraries) in different towns, they can do that because we are registered,” Brinkerhoff said.

The library's location at Schwartz Park complements the park’s popular Story Walk, where visitors can follow a path and read a book along the way.

“It’s the perfect place. Kids can finish the Story Walk and then pick out a book to take home. It’s like finding a little treasure,” Brinkherhoff said.

While the library currently features mostly children’s books, many of which were collected during Brinkerhoff’s time as an educator, the goal is to expand its offerings. Community members are encouraged to drop off books they no longer need, such as magazines, cookbooks, and novels.

“I hope this inspires a love of reading for all ages. It’s not just for kids. I want everyone to feel welcome to use it and contribute,” she said.

The mom of four is committed to keeping the library well-stocked and accessible, too.

“We’ll always make sure there are books in it. Once people know it’s here, I think they’ll start contributing more regularly,” she said.

If you are in the area, make sure to stop by Schwartz Park, grab a book, and/or leave one behind. After all, the best stories are the ones we share.