Take a Book, Return a Book: Little Free Library Comes to the University Union

Early spring quarter, a Little Free Library was placed in the Julian A. McPhee University Union. Little Free Library is a free book exchange in which individuals may place or remove a book at any time, free of charge. The library was implemented by the University Union Advisory Board (UUAB), one of three branches of ASI Student Government which works to enhance student experiences in the UU, Cal Poly Recreation Center, and Cal Poly Sports Complex. The library was implemented with three goals in mind: to promote mental health and self-care, to foster a sense of community, and to give students an alternative pastime.

“Our hope is that this is much more than just a small addition to the University Union, but rather that it helps to bring students together and promote mental well-being through facilitating a book exchange,” Kylie Clark, UUAB representative for the College of Liberal Arts, said. “Books mean a lot to people; they represent ideas, help individuals to relax and de-stress, and can even change lives.”

The Little Free Library is located next to Chumash Auditorium, and everyone is welcome to take or contribute books as they please. The library will also be added to a world map of all existing Little Free Libraries. Stop by and grab a book or share one of your favorite books with someone by adding it to the library!

“I’m super excited that the Little Free Library is in the UU because in my experience with Little Free Libraries, there’s such a sense of community,” Barrett Lo, physics sophomore, said. “Without being there, you get to share information with other people, but it’s way more personal. You know somebody has placed that book there because they want to share that information with someone else. It’s like saying if I could teach anyone one thing, it would be this.”

Interested in becoming a member of the UUAB? The branch is recruiting for members to represent the College of Science and Mathematics, College of Engineering, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, and Orfalea College of Business. Visit ASI Jobs to learn more and apply by May 11!