If you’ve ever wandered down a leafy street and spotted a colourful little box filled with books, you’ve already met one of Australia’s best community treasures: the Street Library.
These free mini libraries are dotted all over the country, inviting readers of every age to take a book, leave a book, or simply enjoy a browse. For families, teachers, and young bookworms, they’re a fun way to share stories and discover something new, and they’re often right around the corner.
What is a Street Library?
Street Library Australia is a not-for-profit movement encouraging neighbours to share the joy of reading. Anyone can host a library: a bright box on a fence, a converted cupboard, or a handcrafted mini-house. Each one is unique, reflecting the creativity of the people who built and maintain it.
You don’t need a membership or card. All you have to do is open the door, choose a book, and pass it on when you’re finished. Many libraries include children’s books, making them a brilliant resource for parents and teachers looking to inspire readers aged 8–12 (and all ages).
How to find a Street Library near me
Street Library’s website makes it easy to search for libraries in your area. Pop in your postcode and you’ll see a map dotted with little book icons – each one a new adventure waiting to happen. Some libraries even have themes, like gardening, fantasy, or Australian wildlife stories (perfect for middle-grade readers who love a touch of magic!). Not all Australian Book Libraries are registered, so you may stumble upon a new one on your search. A real-life treasure hunt!
Building your own Street Library
If you’re passionate about books, consider hosting a library yourself! You can buy a pre-made box or accessories from the Street Library shop or create one from recycled materials. Add a splash of paint, fill it with a few favourite titles, and watch your neighbourhood come alive with readers.
There’s plenty of Street Library inspo on Instagram.
Go bold like the Little Red Street Library – https://www.instagram.com/littleredstreetlibrary/
Cutesy home-themed like Hartree Corner Street Library – https://www.instagram.com/hartree.corner.street.library/
Floral like this Desert Pea beauty in the NT – https://www.instagram.com/p/DHdQ7Fjsn7j/
Or a bit nautical like this one I found in Woodgate QLD – https://www.instagram.com/p/ClCaXJbB8m1/
Celebrating children’s stories & novel wanderings
Street Libraries are proof that reading doesn’t have to stay inside four walls. Next time you’re out walking, see if you can spot one. Or check the Street Library map before your next weekend outing.
Who knows? The perfect book might be waiting for you just a few steps away.
I love discovering little library boxes in my neighbourhood, especially when they contain local Australian authors, middle-grade mysteries and magic, and a range of topics for readers of all ages.
Jayne McIntyre Author 