If you’ve ever strolled through a neighborhood and spotted a tiny wooden box filled with books, you know how magical it feels. There’s something about the idea of take a book, leave a book that instantly brings a smile, it’s community and kindness, wrapped in wood and glass, right at the edge of a sidewalk.
This September, that magic gets even easier to bring to your own front yard with How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library, an inspiring, photo-filled guide written by professional carpenter Phil Schmidt and published in partnership with Little Free Library®.
Why I’m Excited About This Book
I’ve always loved the idea of sharing books with neighbors (especially living in the mountains, where coffee shop book swaps aren’t exactly around every corner). And here’s a little secret: every time we travel, Jayson and I take bike rides just to find Little Free Libraries. It’s one of my favorite travel traditions, we map out a few locations and turn it into a treasure hunt for stories. Sometimes we’ll find a classic we love, sometimes a quirky one we’ve never heard of, but it’s always an adventure.
A Little Free Library is more than just a cute structure, it’s a meeting place for stories, ideas, and community connection. And, let’s be honest, it’s also a beautiful way to add a little charm to your yard.
What’s Inside
Step-by-step plans for 11 mini library designs: From simple and modern to storybook-cottage cute.
Tool + material lists: So you know exactly what you need before you start.
Tips on installation, upkeep, and maintenance: Because your Little Free Library deserves to look good for years.
Creative ideas to make it uniquely yours: Paint it bright, add a shingled roof, or go full “enchanted forest” theme (my personal mountain-town vibe).
How to become an official steward: With tips for keeping your box stocked and welcoming.
There are even QR codes that link to building videos and interactive maps of Little Free Libraries worldwide, perfect for when you’re traveling and want to discover one in a new city (yes, I already know we’re biking to some new ones this fall).
Why Build One?
Besides the pure joy of sharing books, Little Free Libraries have become symbols of community and (in some cases) quiet resistance to book bans. They remind us that reading is for everyone, every age, every background, every corner of the world. And with more than 200,000 registered Little Free Libraries in over 120 countries, you’ll be joining a huge global movement of kindness.
3 Dream Little Library Themes to Inspire You
1. The Eco-Read Nook Fill your library with nature guides, hiking trail maps, gardening books, and eco-living reads. Bonus points for adding a basket of free wildflower seed packets or a shelf for plant cuttings from your garden.
2. Kids’ Corner Dedicate your library to picture books, early chapter books, and young adult novels. Paint it with whimsical colors or even a chalkboard panel so kids can leave little messages or doodles after they visit.
3. Local Author Showcase Give your neighbors a taste of your town’s creativity by featuring local authors and poets. Add a guestbook for visitors to leave notes for authors or even sign up to share their own writing.
How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library hits shelves September 2, 2025, and is the perfect fall DIY project. Imagine building one with the kids, your neighbors, or even your book club, it’s hands-on, creative, and leaves your community just a little brighter.
So grab your hammer, pick out your paint, and get ready to turn your yard (or your favorite park or school) into a hub for book lovers.
Because the best stories are the ones we share, and if you ever see a couple on bikes pulling up to your library with big smiles and a few books in tow, there’s a good chance it’s us.
For the traveler who treads lightly and values sustainability, eco-minded escapes offer more than just scenic views, they provide meaningful ways to connect with nature and local cultures. Around the world, more destinations are embracing green initiatives, offering conscious explorers the chance to enjoy their adventures while minimizing environmental impact.
Costa Rica: Living in Harmony with Nature
Costa Rica is a favorite among eco-travelers for good reason. With an impressive amount of protected land, this Central American gem invites you to explore rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife reserves. Eco-lodges are nestled deep within jungles, often powered by renewable energy and committed to low-impact operations. Travelers can take part in reforestation projects, hike through national parks, or relax in hot springs heated by geothermal activity, all while knowing their visit supports conservation.
Bhutan: A Conscious Kingdom
High in the Himalayas lies Bhutan, a country deeply rooted in tradition and committed to sustainability. Here, happiness and wellbeing are prioritized over economic growth. Tourism is carefully regulated to preserve its pristine landscapes and sacred sites. Trekkers can roam ancient trails, visit remote monasteries, and stay in guesthouses that honor both cultural heritage and environmental stewardship. Bhutan offers an experience that’s as enriching spiritually as it is environmentally responsible.
The Azores: Green by Nature
The Azores, a volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is a quiet haven for sustainable travel. These islands promote renewable energy, waste reduction, and ocean preservation. Their eco-conscious mindset is evident in everything from the architecture of lodges to the policies that govern tourism. Visitors can kayak along volcanic coastlines, spot dolphins and whales, or hike through misty forests, all while supporting local efforts to protect the land and sea.
Belize: Rainforest Retreats with Purpose
Belize blends biodiversity with a commitment to sustainability. Jungle lodges here operate with minimal impact, often using solar power and locally sourced materials. Nature lovers can explore limestone caves, observe tropical birds, or snorkel the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Many accommodations also support community development and wildlife rehabilitation programs, offering travelers a chance to give back during their stay.
Faroe Islands: Remote and Responsible
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands are gaining popularity as a sustainable travel destination. With their windswept cliffs and charming villages, they offer a peaceful escape from the noise of mass tourism. The locals have taken proactive steps to protect their environment, even closing parts of the islands at times for conservation work. Visitors are encouraged to follow local guidelines, respect nature, and participate in preservation initiatives when possible.
Waikiki, Hawaii: Sustainable Island Living
While Waikiki is known for its famous beaches and bustling atmosphere, it’s also evolving as a destination for eco-conscious travel. Many hotels and resorts now implement sustainable practices like energy efficiency, local sourcing, and waste reduction. If you’re planning a tropical getaway and want to enjoy it responsibly, consider staying at a Waikiki resort Honolulu Hawaii. It’s possible to soak up the sun while still supporting green initiatives and local culture.
Travel Tips for the Conscious Explorer
Making your travels more sustainable doesn’t require drastic changes, just intentional choices:
Pack light and smart: Bring reusable items like water bottles, cutlery, and cloth bags.
Choose local: Support small businesses, eat locally, and buy handmade souvenirs.
Leave no trace: Stick to trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and dispose of waste properly.
Offset your carbon: Consider contributing to environmental programs that balance your travel emissions.
Educate yourself: Learn about the local environment and cultural norms before visiting.
Eco-minded travel allows you to explore the world without compromising its future. Whether you’re hiking cloud forests, diving in coral reefs, or simply choosing a green-certified hotel, every small decision adds up. For the conscious explorer, the journey is just as important as the destination.
There’s something so magical about watching a tiny cutting transform into a thriving new plant. It’s slow, subtle, and full of wonder—which is probably why I’m completely in love with Hilton Carter’s new book, The Propagation Handbook: A Guide to Propagating Houseplants.
If you’ve ever wanted to grow your plant collection (without spending a fortune at the nursery), or if you just love the idea of creating something beautiful from what you already have—this book is for you.
🪴 A Guide for Every Plant Parent (Beginner to Obsessed)
Hilton Carter has a way of making you feel like plant propagation isn’t just a gardening technique—it’s a mindful, creative act. In The Propagation Handbook, he walks you through everything you need to know: from the simplest water propagation to more advanced techniques like air layering and grafting. But don’t worry—it’s all super accessible, whether you’re a total beginner or already have plants in every window.
He even includes a list of which methods work best for which plants—so you’ll know exactly how to multiply your pothos, monstera, or that stubborn fiddle leaf fig.
🌸 Beautiful, Inspiring, and Totally Doable
Like all of Hilton Carter’s books, The Propagation Handbook is stunning. Think: page after page of bright, artful photos, gorgeous plant vignettes, and dreamy displays of “propagation bouquets” (yes, that’s a thing—and yes, I’m trying it this weekend).
It’s the kind of book you’ll flip through again and again, not just for instructions, but for inspiration. And if you’re like me and love filling your home with both plants and purpose, this book checks every box.
🌿 Why It’s a Sweet Greens Favorite
There’s a deeper message woven into this book—one I really resonate with. Propagation isn’t just about more plants. It’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and practicing patience. Watching a root grow in water, checking your cuttings each morning, sharing little plant babies with friends—it’s the kind of quiet, meaningful joy we could all use a little more of.
Plus, propagation is incredibly sustainable. You’re reusing, repurposing, and multiplying from what you already have. Less waste, more life. 💚
📚 Ready to Get Your Hands (A Little) Dirty?
If you’re looking to grow your collection, try something creative, or just spend more time nurturing green things—The Propagation Handbook is the perfect companion.
I’ve always believed that a little paint, a little time, and a lot of heart can go a long way—and Annie Sloan’s newest book, Colorful Living: 30 Creative Upcycling Paint Projects, is pure proof of that.
Whether you’ve got a tired piece of furniture begging for a second life or you’re just in the mood to bring more color and personality into your space, this book is like a pep talk and a how-to guide wrapped into one beautifully illustrated package.
🎨 More Than Just Paint
If you know Annie Sloan, you know she’s the queen of Chalk Paint®—and this book is filled with gorgeous projects that use her signature paints to transform everything from furniture to fabric. But what makes Colorful Living so special is that it’s not just about the how—it’s also about the why.
This book is all about creating a home that feels personal, layered, and loved—not perfect. It’s about slowing down, using what you have, and infusing your space with creativity. And around here at Sweet Greens, that’s something we can totally get behind.
🌿 Sustainability Meets Style
One of the things I love most about Annie’s philosophy (and this book) is her emphasis on upcycling. Instead of tossing things that are scratched, faded, or just plain outdated, Colorful Living shows you how to turn them into something new—and completely fabulous.
It’s creative, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s so much better for the planet.
You’ll find projects like: 🪑 Restoring and painting old wooden chairs with bold patterns 🎨 Turning outdated cabinets into colorful statement pieces 🖼 Creating wall art using leftover fabric and custom paint mixes 💡 Even how to give old lamps and accessories a vibrant refresh
Each project includes step-by-step instructions, gorgeous photos, and tips to make it your own. There’s even a peek into Annie’s own home for a little behind-the-scenes inspiration (spoiler: it’s stunning and full of personality).
✨ Why This Book Belongs on Your Shelf
Whether you’re a longtime DIYer or just looking for a fun weekend project, Colorful Living is packed with creative, confidence-boosting ideas that make you want to roll up your sleeves and dive in.
Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about making something old feel new again. You’re not just saving furniture—you’re telling a story, embracing imperfection, and adding character to your home, one brushstroke at a time.
And honestly? It’s a beautiful reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start with what you already have—and a single can of paint.
📚 Ready to Add More Color to Your Life?
If you’re looking for sustainable inspiration, a new creative outlet, or just the courage to start painting that table in your garage, Annie Sloan’s Colorful Living will meet you exactly where you are.
You can grab a copy here, and I highly recommend keeping it nearby—because once you start flipping through, you’re going to want to paint everything.
