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Norfolk-Treherne Reeve Gilles Guertin joins Alison Delf-Timmerman and Patti Everett of the Prairie Spirit Teachers’ Association to showcase the little library at Treherne’s Central Park. Photo submitted
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Norfolk-Treherne Reeve Gilles Guertin joins Alison Delf-Timmerman and Patti Everett of the Prairie Spirit Teachers’ Association to showcase the little library at Treherne’s Central Park. Photo submitted
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The Prairie Spirit Teachers’ Association (PSTA) has partnered with two municipalities to bring little libraries to the communities of Treherne and Baldur.

These small book exchange structures aim to increase access to books and encourage literacy for residents of all ages.

PSTA teamed up with the municipalities of Norfolk-Treherne and Argyle to place little libraries in Treherne’s Central Park and Baldur’s Veteran Park. The municipalities’ Reeves, Gilles Guertin and Mike Everett, respectively, welcome the new additions to their communities and appreciate being chosen as host sites.

The project grew from a public relations grant supported by the Manitoba Teachers’ Society. The grant encourages local teacher associations to work with external groups to promote education.

Take a book, share a book

The little libraries operate on a simple principle: “take a book – share a book.” Visitors are invited to borrow a book and leave one in return, building a community of readers.

Alison Delf-Timmerman, a retired teacher who monitors the Treherne little library, says, “I see lots of books going in and out. I’ve had parents say how their children are excited, especially over the summer months, to be able to go and grab some new books while the school is closed.”

She adds, “We’re promoting literacy at no cost to its users.”

A variety of books for everyone

Teachers donated books to start the program, providing titles from various genres and for all age groups. The little libraries are designed to withstand Manitoba’s weather, protecting the books from snow and rain.

Delf-Timmerman remarks, “We’ve been more than pleased with what type of books are coming in and out. If there’s a little bit of a void, I’ll make sure that I fill it up.”

Guilding community through reading

The project hopes to inspire not only reading but also a sense of community among users.

Delf-Timmerman notes, “The most rewarding part for me was when we came across a note that said this is a great idea. I think that speaks to the success we’re having.”

Residents are encouraged to visit the little libraries and begin “reading with spirit.”

The program continues year-round, inviting everyone to share their favourite books and discover new ones.


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