Street Libraries

There's a quirky reading revolution that has quietly spread across Brisbane (and the world!) - pop-up street libraries.

These miniature community libraries are an initiative of residents and sometimes businesses across the inner-city and suburbs of Brisbane, and can take the form of everything from purpose-built garden huts down to phone boxes, recycled fridges and repurposed letter boxes.

The idea, based on the old honesty box system, is the street library owner fills the box with books (of any kind of genre) that anyone can come along and borrow for free, swap a book or donate a preloved book of their own. 

Brisbane has more than 150 street libraries and here's a small sample of what you might find in your suburb:

Ryan Street, West End

The architect owner of this West End Queenslander designed a matching library for his front garden.

The Book Hive, Arana Hills

The primary school teacher who set up this little 'book hive' was inspired by her backyard bee hive.

Brighton Books, Brighton

In the backstreets of this bayside suburb is a book shed that stocks books, DVDs and kids games.

Jubilee Tce Book Nook, Ashgrove

Near the bus stop on the corner of Jubilee Tce & Fletcher Pde, Ashgrove, is a retro fridge library with seat. *Note that this one is not listed on the Street Library website.

Nice to know - Not only are street libraries a great way to recycle books, but also to discover new books without the cost, meet neighbours and possibly even make new friends in the community.

Check the Street Library website to find a miniature library of books near you.