Free Library of Books & Things. This Free Library box is custom designed to be big enough to accommodate something that may be larger than a book. Like a puzzle or a tool or dishware or a toaster (?). What actually goes into this will be determined by the owner and those that utilize it. An important concept is that it is intended to be a vehicle for free exchange. And free exchange is another way to keep things local. This is now two of ??? free library of things we have made. Now considering the size and location for the next one.
Speaking of keeping things local, this watertight overbuilt free library box is made from locally source reclaimed materials. This particular box was made from materials from many different sources, including the sides and shelves from flooring salvaged from a 1984 house in Westbrook ,Ct. The trim is plaster lath salvaged from a house on Dorman St. in New Haven and a house on St. Ronan St. in New Haven. The oak flooring came from someone in Bethany that previously salvaged it. The face trim piece ( gray) is from a shed in New Haven. The door is from a 1920’s pantry cabinet. Cedar roof shingles found in a garage still in the box. Framing is 2 x 4’s from the St. Ronan St. house ( c. 1914). The back is pine boards from a number of different local sources. Hinges are from a large lot of scrap hardware diverted from the metal scrap yard.
This Free Library is located at Cantean https://www.canteancoffee.com/ , located at 1660 Whitney Ave. Hamden, Ct. (203) 745-3681 | cantean1660@gmail.com