By 1812Blockhouse
If you’ve ever enjoyed the thrill of geocaching, you’ll love what Mansfield Richland County Public Library has to offer. Imagine the excitement of finding a hidden treasure, but instead of tracking it down with a GPS, it’s right there waiting for you. The library’s Little Free Libraries are like geocaching with a literary twist—minus the hunt!
These mini-libraries are strategically placed across the community, allowing you to borrow and share books at your leisure. Just like a traditional geocache, the idea is simple: Take a book, leave a book. It’s a fantastic way to encourage reading, share your favorite stories, and discover new ones—all while fostering a sense of community.
What Are Little Free Libraries?
Little Free Libraries are small, often decorative, book-sharing boxes installed in public spaces or on private properties. They are part of a global nonprofit organization that aims to increase book access and foster a sense of community through the joy of reading. With over 175,000 registered Little Free Libraries in more than 121 countries, these book exchanges have shared over 400 million books worldwide. Mansfield’s Little Free Libraries are a part of this international movement, bringing neighbors together one book at a time.
New Additions to Mansfield’s Parks
Two of the latest Little Free Libraries have popped up in Mansfield City Parks, making your next park visit a perfect opportunity to pick up a new read. Here’s where you can find them:
- Burton Park
1177 Sunset Blvd., Mansfield 44907
Located in the heart of a beloved neighborhood, this Little Free Library adds a new layer of charm to Burton Park. Perfect for a relaxing day out with a book in hand. - Maple Lake Park
746 Arlington Ave, Mansfield 44903
Nestled near the serene Maple Lake, this new addition is a great spot to enjoy a story surrounded by nature.
Explore Other Little Free Library Locations
If you’re out and about, why not check out one of the other Little Free Libraries scattered across the region? Here’s where you can find them:
- 179th Airlift Wing
1947 Harrington Memorial Rd., Mansfield 44903 - Crossroads/City Center
29 N. Main St., Mansfield 44902 - Gorman Nature Center
2295 Lexington Ave., Mansfield 44907
Perfect for pairing a good book with a walk in the woods. - Lucas Monroe Township Memorial Park
Lucas Perrysville Rd, Lucas, 44843 - Marshall Park at the Playscape
3375 Milligan Rd., Ontario 44906 - Mechanics Bank
674 Free Rd., Shiloh 44878 - Olivesburg General Store
4778 State Rt. 545, Ashland 44805
A historic spot to swap stories with fellow readers. - Shiloh Village Office
13 Main Street West, Shiloh 44878
Each of these locations offers a unique atmosphere, whether you’re swapping books in a peaceful park, a bustling city center, or a charming local store.
Join the Community of Readers
Whether you’re an avid reader or just looking for something new to explore, these Little Free Libraries offer an accessible and fun way to connect with others in the community. Take a book that sparks your interest, and when you’re done, leave a book for the next reader. You never know what treasure you might find!
Photo: Creative Commons License
