When will National Little Free Library Day be celebrated? May 17th of each calendar year.
What is National Little Free Library Day? National Little Free Library Day celebrates the global movement to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access for all. Led by the Little Free Library nonprofit organization, this special day honors the more than 200,000 Little Free Library book-sharing boxes around the world—open 24/7 and freely accessible to every reader.
Found in all 50 U.S. states, in 128 countries, and on all seven continents—even Antarctica—Little Free Libraries connect neighbors, spark conversations, and put books directly into the hands of those who need them most.
On National Little Free Library Day, we invite people everywhere to participate in the joy of book sharing: take a book or leave a book at a Little Free Library near you. Download the Little Free Library mobile app to find a location nearby, and learn more about the nonprofit organization at littlefreelibrary.org.
How should National Little Free Library Day be celebrated or observed? Celebrate National Little Free Library Day by sharing a book in a Little Free Library! Leave a favorite title, donate new or gently used books, or discover your next great read. Every book shared helps expand access to reading and strengthens connections among neighbors.
Snap photos of your visit to a Little Free Library and enter our photo contest. You can also turn the day into an adventure by visiting multiple Little Free Libraries in your area. Download the free Little Free Library mobile app to map out a route and plan your own Little Free Library hunt.
Most importantly, celebrate by embracing the simple joy of book sharing and the power of stories to bring communities together.
Why was National Little Free Library Day created? National Little Free Library Day was created to formally recognize and elevate a global movement that strengthens communities through book sharing. The Little Free Library nonprofit organization was established on May 17, 2012, and each May we celebrate Little Free Library Week to honor the power of books to connect neighbors and expand access to reading.
Establishing an official National Little Free Library Day amplifies this celebration, raising awareness of the more than 200,000 Little Free Libraries worldwide, and inspiring even greater participation. A nationally recognized day encourages individuals, schools, public libraries, businesses, and community organizations to host events, share books, and engage new readers. Most importantly, it spotlights the importance of equitable book access and the simple yet powerful act of sharing stories with one another.
Who created this day? This day was created by Little Free Library in 2026.