Words and photos generously provided by Fairmont Free Library organizer, Priya Biswas.
“The crisp autumn air felt like a comforting embrace as I stood before the newly constructed Little Free Library. It wasn’t just a wooden box filled with books; it was a symbol of community, a physical representation of the interconnectedness that had drawn my husband and me to this beautiful valley. In the process of planning the project, I began meeting more neighbours and getting involved in my community. One of those chance encounters was with Sylvia Page, Through Sylvia, I met many others, including her husband Doug, whose skills and generosity would play a pivotal role in the library’s creation. He graciously offered to build the library, and what he crafted was more than I could have imagined—a beautiful, sturdy structure with a bench attached, inviting people to sit, relax, and enjoy the space.
The grand opening, held on Thanksgiving weekend, felt like the perfect celebration of all that had come together. As neighbours and friends gathered around the newly built library, browsing the shelves and chatting with one another, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. The library’s opening wasn’t just about celebrating a completed project; it was an opportunity to meet new friends, share stories, and build even stronger connections. It also opened the door to future collaborations within the community. The Little Free Library stands as a symbol of what we can achieve when we work together, building a future where every story—and every person—has a place to be heard and shared.”
The Fairmont Little Library project received funding through the Neighbourhood Small Grants program in 2024.
