As part of the continuing effort to promote literacy throughout the state, Delaware-based nonprofit organization Success Won’t Wait has partnered with New Castle County Council President Monique Williams-Johns (pictured) to install a bring-one-take-one mini library at the New Castle County Public Works Building in New Castle, Delaware.

The new mini library is more than just a collection of books. It’s a simple, but powerful, way to encourage reading, connection, and a little daily inspiration. It’s built on the same premise that has made the Little Free Library movement so popular: bring a book, take a book.

This project came together thanks to the shared vision of Williams-Johns, Success Won’t Wait co-founder Susan McNeill, and longtime literacy advocate Amanda Gonye. This is the third collaboration for the team. Previous installations were completed earlier this year at the Louis L. Redding Building in Wilmington, Delaware and the New Castle County Building in New Castle, Delaware.

Why install books in the workplace?

“Finding time to read can be hard when you’re juggling meetings, emails, and everything else the workday throws at you. But having books right there in a space where people already spend time? That makes it easier to grab a good read on a lunch break or while waiting for a meeting to start,” explains McNeill.

The mini library was placed in a busy common area with easy, frequent access. The selection of titles is as diverse as the people who work in the building. Fiction, parenting, cookbooks, self-help, biographies, spiritual guides, and more are included. Everyone will find something they can connect with.

“This mini library is more than just shelves of books. It’s a symbol of our commitment to personal growth, community, and wellness,” says Williams-Johns. “We want to create a workplace that encourages lifelong learning, and this is one way to do that.”

While the shelves were stocked with books donated by Success Won’t Wait, and the organization will continue to help refresh the collection, employees are encouraged to bring their own to share, as well. In this way the mini library will keep evolving, shaped by the people who use it.  

In a world that often feels rushed and exclusively digital, this mini library is a reminder that books, and the love of reading, still matter in today’s busy world. It doesn’t take much… just a few shelves, some great stories, and a community of people who believe in the power of words.

If your workplace would benefit from a bring-one-take-one reading area, please contact Success Won’t Wait.

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s literacy projects, how to donate used children’s books in Delaware, or volunteer your time? Click on the About Us tab above.

Read now, because success won’t wait!