Winnipeg woman gives gift of reading to children by hosting Free Little Library event

After spending five years working in the elementary school system, a Winnipeg woman was inspired to start a Free Little Library event. 

Inspired by the Free Little Libraries we see placed in people’s yards, Preslee Marshall decided to do this on a much larger scale.

“I learned about the importance of reading and literacy at a young age,” said Marshall. ” And I know that not everyone can afford books, or they don’t have easy access to libraries. I wanted to make an event to help spread awareness about literacy and declining rates in Canada.”

Preslee held her first event last year and said it was a huge success.

“My intentions were only to do the event one time, one year,” said Marshall. “After the event, I got so many messages from people saying they wanted me to do it again because their kids loved it and had read all their books already.”

Last year, Preslee purchased most of the 2,500 books available at the event. This year, she has received donations from elementary schools and people reaching out on social media, allowing her to have over 3,000 books at this year’s event. 

“I am always open to more books. The more books, the better,” said Marshall. 

Last year’s event had over 2,500 books available for kids to take home for free (Submitted by Preslee Marshall)

The event caters to children from infants up to 13 years old. This year she’s also extending the invitation to grandparents, babysitters, daycare owners, teachers or anyone who could benefit from books, including people who need a top-up for their free little libraries. 

“We also have free activities for kids to partake in, like rock painting, different crafts and colouring. There will also be cool gift baskets for kids to enter to win at no cost.”

The Free Little Library event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 17 from 12-4 p.m. at the Linda Boyd Studio at Winakwa Community Centre. 

Anyone interested in donating books or volunteering at the event is encouraged to contact Preslee at afabulousworld1997@gmail.com