In a heartening display of community spirit and the promotion of literacy, Santa Monica witnessed the inauguration of a new Tiny Free Library on Thursday, February 29, 2024. The ceremony, held in front of the Elks Lodge on Pico Boulevard, saw Mayor Phil Brock alongside members of Girl Scout Troop 415 cutting the ribbon, marking a significant addition to the neighborhood.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Girl Scouts from Troop 415, has introduced the only free library along Pico Boulevard in the City of Santa Monica. The concept, simple yet powerful, encourages residents to "take a book or give a book," fostering a culture of sharing and education within the community.
During the ceremony, Mayor Brock engaged in a light-hearted exchange with the Girl Scouts, expressing his enthusiasm for the project. "This is the only little free library on Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica that I know of. So I think that's fabulous," he remarked. The mayor emphasized the importance of community service and the role of volunteering in building a supportive society. He shared his own experiences with volunteering from a young age and commended the Girl Scouts for their contribution to the community..
The new library is well-stocked, with a particular focus on children's books, aiming to cultivate a love for reading among the youngest residents of Santa Monica. Mayor Brock highlighted the importance of reading for children and the library's role in making books accessible to families.
The initiative not only serves to provide free access to books but also stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism in Santa Monica. The Elks Lodge, with its 120-year history of service in the community, provides a fitting backdrop for this new venture, symbolizing the continuous chain of giving and learning..
The Girl Scouts' involvement in this project is part of their journey towards earning their Silver Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette can achieve. This project reflects their commitment to serving their community and their dedication to promoting literacy and education.
As the ribbon was cut and the Little Free Library officially opened, Mayor Brock and the Girl Scouts invited the community to join in this noble endeavor. The library stands as a beacon of hope and generosity, encouraging all to partake in the joy of reading and the spirit of giving.