The University of St. Francis College of Education proudly announces the installation of its first-ever Little Free Library, marking a meaningful step toward fostering literacy, community engagement, and a love of reading across campus and in the community.
Located in a central, easily accessible area for students, faculty, staff, and visitors, the Little Free Library operates on a simple yet powerful principle: take a book, share a book. This small, welcoming structure invites members of the campus and the surrounding community to exchange books freely, encouraging lifelong learning and connection.
The initiative was led by Dr. Donna Metlicka of the College of Education, whose vision was to create a space that promotes both academic enrichment and recreational reading. The Little Free Library will feature a rotating collection of books for all ages and interests, from children’s stories to classic literature and contemporary titles. It is a complementary initiative to Bernie’s Bookshelf, located in the College of Education Student Lounge, where students are encouraged to take elementary, middle-level, and high school books to begin or supplement their classroom library.
“This project reflects our mission to serve and uplift the community,” said Dr. Metlicka. “We are excited to provide a resource that encourages reading, sharing, and community building right here on our campus.”
The Little Free Library also aligns with the university’s commitment to service and outreach, offering an opportunity for students to participate in literacy initiatives.
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The University of St. Francis, in Joliet, Ill., serves more than 3,200 students worldwide and offers undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs in the arts and sciences, business, education, nursing and social work. There are over 54,000 USF alumni across the globe. For information, call 800-735-7500 or visit stfrancis.edu.
University of St. Francis: Bigger thinking. Brighter purpose.
