Little Free Libraries and Tabletop Games

Nov 14

Can you add a tabletop game to a Little Free Library?

There’s certainly a lot of examples of people trying to bring creativity and novelty to their libraries, including adding non-book items to their displays.

But in Edmonton, Ontario, Monique Merchant actually thought outside the (game) box. She started a puzzle and game exchange box in her neighborhood.

Inspired by the Little Free Library movement, she was able to obtain an old newspaper box and start her altruism.

Monique Merchant made a game and dry food exchange in Edmonton, Ontario. (photo by Julien Fornier/Global News)

Donate a game

Most of us can’t find a box like that. So, what if you could put a tabletop game in an existing Little Free Library box? Would it fit? Would someone even play it?

I’m going to test this. There’s a box in my neighborhood, and I’m going to donate a game I liked playing but can’t find time for anymore because of other games in my collection.

But I’m going to brand it as a way to celebrate SpielMas.

Download

Here’s a sheet of notes (PDF) in differing sizes you can leave in your box when you donate your game. Cut one out, leave it in the game box, and place the game in a Little Free Library in your neighborhood.

If you think you’d like to help someone who doesn’t have a family to play with, try donating a great solo print-and-play game instead.

Share your experience using the #SpielMas tag!

Published November 14, 2020.