You’ve seen those tiny, painted boxes posted up in a front yard or outside of a business, but have you ever wondered how they got there?

If you haven’t heard of Little Free Library before, it is a nonprofit working to build community + create a love of reading by supporting neighborhood book exchanges all over the world.

Who are they for?

Well, that’s easy. They’re for everyone + anyone. The libraries aim to service children and their families to help further education and support high school graduation status.

How can I start one?

To start a Little Free Library you can simply build one on your own or buy one from the Little Free Library online store. The boxes come undecorated, so you can customize the look on your own.

Where can I find them?

Find all of the libraries near you by using this interactive map. Whether you need to unload some spines from your shelves or you’re overdue for some book browsing, here are a few around Boston.

Downtown Boston, Washington + School Streets

This not-so-little library is at the Irish Famine Memorial Plaza (right by the Walgreens). It has just been restocked by Downtown Boston BID ambassadors and operates from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Seaport District, 51 Seaport Blvd.

Peruse a selection of mysteries, children’s books, accessible texts, and even more stories at this library on the corner of Seaport Boulevard and Sleepter Street.

Rose Kennedy Greenway, Multiple locations

Browse not one, not two, but three libraries on The Greenway that serve the surrounding communities of Chinatown, the Wharf District + the North End.

Plus, 826 Boston + Candlewick Press launched the Read in Color Initiative in Boston last year, installing 10 new libraries with books on social justice and racism and stories that celebrate marginalized voices. Check out this map with the participating libraries.

Did you know? The Little Free Diverse Libraries initiative was started by Arlington resident Sarah Kamya.