Staff members from the maintenance department installed a Little Library at Bridgeway Elementary on Monday in the school's garden. It was purchased with funds from a Pattonville Education Foundation (PEF) grant in 2019.

On the front door of the mailbox-like structure, the message is “When you read, you plant a seed.” On the sides, the words 'Read' and 'Grow' are written, and a picture of hot air balloons is on the back.

Putting in a Little Library has been a goal of reading specialist Jeanne Fernandez for a few years.

"I am so excited for Bridgeway to have another way of sharing a love of books with the community!"

A Little Library is a small book-borrowing place for the public, promoting literacy and a community bond. There will be chapter books, blank make-your-own books, picture books, children's cookbooks, and even some packets of seeds to try and grow. 

During this time with COVID-19 restrictions, the books inside Bridgeway's Little Library are for people to take home and keep.

“Pick out a book, take it home and keep it,” Fernandez said. “Read and re-read it as many times as you want!”

As the book selections get low, more will be added. 

Fernandez said the grant made it possible to improve the garden area in front of the school.

“The grant also helped purchase paints, new wood for benches and garden beds, and some plants for the front outdoor classroom/garden area,” Fernandez said. "The Little Free Library was painted and sealed this past summer, and will be listed in the worldwide Little Free Library registry."

Books will be placed in the Little Library by Wednesday evening.