May 2022

"The Art of Reading" Little Free Library
 

I love exploring Little Free Libraries around my neighborhood, not only for the books but for the sense of community they create. I’ve always admired the artistic designs of some libraries, and for years, I wanted to design and build one for my front yard. This project, which took over three months, reflects my passion for creating something unique, functional, and visually striking—true to my motto, “Why Build Simple, Create Beauty.”

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While most Little Free Libraries are square or rectangular, I was inspired to design a cylindrical shape, which became the focus of my custom glass design. The challenge with a cylindrical structure was organizing the books inside. To solve this, I created a spinning carousel strong enough to support the books, making them easy to browse.

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I drew inspiration from the 19th-century Victorian and Art Nouveau eras, incorporating these influences into the stained glass art and design elements above the book shelves. The curved, fluid shapes in the stained glass windows balance the overall look. The glass cutting, soldering, and craftsmanship involved in these details highlight my commitment to both DIY stained glass and woodworking techniques.

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The Little Free Library stands 45 inches tall with a 23-inch diameter cabinet. The frame’s woodworking showcases the attention to detail, while the glass adds an eye-catching element, making it a standout piece in the neighborhood. This project blends stained glass art, DIY wood art, and woodworking into a one-of-a-kind creation that reflects my passion for creating.

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Due to a wee design flaw this Little Free Library went through a face lift in the Winter of 2023-2024.

Check out its fresh new look.

https://www.woodenglassart.com/little-library-the-facelift