Blog

Little Free Legacy

  • Post author:

This past Thursday, Todd Bol, the founder of the Little Free Library movement, passed away at the age of 62, just a month after receiving his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

I don’t know when they first took root in Wallingford (although Kimberly wrote about hers here back in 2012), but they’ve been a pleasant addition to my neighborhood strolls (and my bedside table) for at least half a decade.

In his honor, I hopped on my bike Saturday afternoon and took a slow loop through the neighborhood, photographing each library I passed. Given how the philosophy of giving without expecting anything in return, and of investing in the education of everyone around you, feels so simpatico with our neighborhood, it didn’t surprise me how many I came across in just a half hour ride. And I’m sure the ones I found were half as many as Wallingford holds. Thanks to everyone who has built one or donated a book!

Discover more from Wallyhood

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Jordan

I started Wallyhood back in 2008, right when my son was born, because I realized I had lived in the neighborhood since 1993 and didn't really know my neighbors. I figured writing a blog about what was going on around me would be a good way to meet people and help other people do the same. As the years progressed, those neighbors have picked up the torch and it is now a group effort, which I adore. I moved out of Wallingford for a few years (2020 - 2025), but I'm back, now living with my wife, son and dog (Dillinger) up in Tangletown.

This Post Has 5 Comments

  1. Kimberly October 21, 2018

    Thanks for this Jordan – I love what one person’s idea has grown to become. What an amazing legacy. I’m sad to learn of Todd’s passing.

    1. Janey October 21, 2018

      Thanks so much for the article and especially the pictures! The libraries always cheer me up when I’m out walking. Sorry to hear of his passing.

  2. wildnwonderful October 22, 2018

    Thank you so much for the article. I love these libraries. Can you give locations? I think you missed several which are on the west side of Stone Way N between 41th & 44th… not past Aurora.( Comment re comments)

  3. snelsen October 22, 2018

    Jordan, you are a valuable member of the community. Thank you so much for writing about these delightful little free libraries. This is a wonderful legacy for Todd. I did not realize he was the person responsible for their existence in our area. The photographs are delightful.

  4. Ffej October 22, 2018

    What a brilliant and thoughtful way to celebrate his legacy — and all those who set up and maintain these little libraries. Thank you, Jordan!

Comments are closed.