With the growth of the internet and social media, it is now rather easy to obtain and learn new information from across the world and varying platforms. However, this does not mean the traditional way of reading books is dying off.
James Strait of Point Pleasant, is finding his own way of spreading the joy of reading with the creation of the Point Pleasant Little Free Public Library. Located off River Road, the homemade custom library offers a variety of titles to the local community for all ages.
Strait hand built the library using 100-year-old repurposed shutters, recycled pallet slats, and a glass coke bottle handle, creating a “yesteryear” theme to pay homage to his beginnings as a woodworker in rural Missouri. Strait founded the library with his wife, Sara, hoping to “enhance the sense of community in Point Pleasant.”
“Community is harmony, we are here to have each other’s back,” said Strait. “We especially like the idea of young readers becoming aware and visiting the library on a regular basis.”
Strait a father of four, grandfather of 11, great-grandfather of 10, and great-great-great uncle credits children as his “reason for being.” The library, he says, is being utilized for people with “relentless curiosity and a passion of learning.”
Strait credits books for having a major influence on his life, with his mother as his original driving force. Reading him two to three books a day including: “Mop Top” by Don Freeman and “Theodore Turtle” by Ellen Mac Gregor.
“Reading enhances your framework, molds your mind, and begins to alter your mind to the world and beautiful ideals, allowing you to open yourself to increased information and hinder your ignorance,” he says.
The library is located five meters off Strait’s large driveway off River Road, providing a large parking area to visitors passing by and allowing patrons to browse the collection safely without the worry of oncoming traffic.
With a “Take one – Leave One” policy to keep the inventory healthy. The system is no pressure, no issue, no judgment. If someone does not have a book, you may still take one; however, drop a book or two off the next time you pass by.
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