Give a Book, Take a Book
Mount Prospect Academy’s involvement in the Little Free Library movement began as an outgrowth of its Experiential Literature Adventure-based Trauma Informed Treatment program. The concept was simple enough- get students outdoors to explore the beauty, sublimity, and wonder of the New Hampshire woods. Use trail maps, geography, and literature to connect students mentally and physically to nature by challenging their perceptions and behaviors.
According to John Mozely, MPA’s Student Council Advisor, the turn to the “little libraries” was triggered by one student’s interest in exploring more of the literature relating to the NH Woods, particularly poetry.
According to their website, “The mission of the Little Free Library organization (LFL) is to build community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access through a network of volunteer-led book-exchange boxes.” The boxes are “mapped” and registered interactively online- anyone can find one and travel to it using the map. Mozely says he and students in the program began to include the stops on their trail hike days in transit expanding the educational component of the program.
Viola! The idea was born.
Pictured, John Mozley of MPA and Pease Library Director Rebecca Whitney
Why not create an exchange box in Plymouth under the stewardship of Mount Prospect Academy?
Paul Guldemond, who leads MPA’s Woodworking Program, together with MPA students, built the exchange box in the shop making the adjustments to match the necessary ordinances.
The LFL is shared space that brings together people of all ages and creates the opportunity to discover a personally relevant book to read not limited by time, space, or privilege.
The collaboration between Mount Prospect Academy, the Town of Plymouth, and Pease Public library is “on the map”- ready to serve the wider community, residents, and travelers alike.
