Book swap libraries, known as Little Free Libraries, have been built by local young people for Aylesbury residents.
The ‘Little Free Libraries’ project is an international campaign which encourages book swapping within communities. The libraries house books for residents to take home or to drop off unwanted books in exchange for a pre-loved book.
Several Free Libraries in Aylesbury have been constructed by autistic young people who are supported by the autism and learning disability support charity – Talkback UK. The charity runs a social enterprise called The Accessible Workshop where the cabinets were made from reclaimed materials such as reused pallets and railway sleepers.
The first library made was delivered to the former Mayor of Aylesbury, Cllr Steven Lambert, at Aylesbury’s Town Hall by members of the group who were part of the project that was funded by Aylesbury Town Council in 2023.
Walton Court
The little library was unveiled at its new home in Walton Court on Friday 21 July by the Town Mayor. Talkback UK members were in attendance alongside local resident, Amy, who will be looking after the library and Neighbourhood Manager, Luke Thorpe, and Community Engagement Business Partner, Rosie Mowbray from Fairhive Homes.
Quarrendon
A second ‘Little Free Library’ was built by local young people and installed in Quarrendon by St Peters Church in November 2023.