Exploring Poughkeepsie’s Charming Little Free Libraries And Book Exchange

If you see what looks like a quirky birdhouse while cruising around Poughkeepsie, you might want to pull over and inspect it.

Don't worry, it's not a secret entrance to Narnia—it's Little Free Library!

These mini-libraries have been popping up all over the city for years. They offer a fun and easy way to exchange books with your community, with no library card required.

These pint-sized book havens work on a simple premise:

Take a book, leave a book.

You can keep a book forever, share it with a friend, or add new ones to the collection. There are no late fees, no due dates, and no librarian giving you the side-eye for dog-earing the pages.

Little Free Libraries are run by community volunteers known as stewards and offer books on just about any subject—from gardening tips to crime thrillers.

The City of Poughkeepsie currently boasts at least four  Little Free Libraries.

(a number down from years past), each dedicated to a local steward:

Crown Heights Park (34 Nassau Rd.)

Thanks to Tove, our Library Steward, for keeping this library stocked!

Greenvale Park (2260 New Hackensack Rd.)

A big shoutout to Jackie, our dedicated steward.

Crestwood Park (22 Crestwood Blvd.)

Maintained with love by Steve and Ashley.

Red Oaks Mills Park (11 Alda Dr.)

Kudos to Natalie for managing this library.

Not near one of these locations? Check out the Little Free Library website to find more spots or learn how to start one in your neighborhood.

So, the next time you're out, swing by one of these locations, grab a book, and maybe leave one behind. After all, a community that reads together grows together.

If you'd like to be a Free Library steward in a park in your neighborhood, please contact the Recreation Department at 845-485-3628.