LIBRARIES | Books in a box

The public is invited to a dedication of a new free library in Springfield on Sunday, Sept. 14. It is just north of McClernand Elementary School on Fifth Street at the home of Jacqueline D. Jackson, author and University of Illinois Springfield professor emerita of Creative Writing. Springfield School District 186 Superintendent Jennifer Gill will be guest speaker and Jackson’s newly published Round Barn, Vol. 3 will be available for purchase, along with other books by local authors. Little free libraries are popping up around the world and offer free and easy access to reading within communities. The structures generally resemble oversized mailboxes where the public is free to take and return books. The late Carl Volkmann was Lincoln Library director, author and a multiple award-winner for achievements in library and community work. Refreshments will be served. Parking is available on the street and in the parking lot north of the event site. In case of rain, the dedication will be held in McClernand’s gym. For more info on this innovation, visit littlefreelibrary.org.