Little Free Libraries: A Collaboration
Little Free Libraries (LFL) is a nonprofit organization intended to inspire a love of reading and build community by fostering neighborhood book exchanges around the world. There are several Little Free Libraries in Charlotte but not on the UNC Charlotte campus. With the expansion of the Light Rail onto campus, a LFL was proposed to connect the University with the larger Charlotte area. The proposal was headed by Shelly Hypes, Director of Access Services at Atkins Library. Funding was provided through Auxillery Services. Design solutions were provided through the School of Architecture, specifically the local chapter of Freedom by Design (FBD) under the guidence of Professor Greg Snyder.
Freedom by Design is the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) community service program that works in partnership with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). According to their mission, students work to "radically impact the lives of people in their community through modest design and construction solutions." The program provides students with real-world, community-focused experience. It focuses on both design-build and engagement solutions to address following five barriers:
- Physical
- Educational
- Environmental
- Socio-Economic
- Cultural
This project has been spearheaded Shelly Hypes, Director of Access Services at Atkins Library.
Project participants (title and/or group association):
Amelia Gates, Freedom by Design
Anne Moore, Dean of J. Murrey Atkins Library
Arik Miguel, Freedom by Design
Betty Ladner, Executive Director of External Relations - J. Murrey Atkins Library
Claire LaFontaine, Freedom by Design
Eliot Ball, Freedom by Design
Greg Snyder, School of Architecture
Jake Froning, Freedom by Design
Jenna Rinalducci, Arts & Architecture Librarian - J. Murrey Atkins Library
Jonathan Joles, Freedom by Design
Jordan Murphy, Library Communications Specialist - J. Murrey Atkins Library
Katie Montie, ADA Project Coordinator
Noah Nelson, Freedom by Design
Paige Fountain, Freedom by Design
Peter Franz, Campus Landscape Architect - Facilities Planning
Peter Romano, Freedom by Design
Quinton Frederick, Freedom by Design
Rick Torres, Reprographics, Vending and ATM Program Manager - Auxiliary Services
Ryan Tillotson, Freedom by Design
Samuel Woods, Freedom by Design
Sharon Reichard, Director of Library Communications & Public Relations - J. Murrey Atkins Library
Shelly Hypes, Director of Access Services - J. Murrey Atkins Library
Steph Krull, Grounds Landscape Supervisor - Facilities Management