A free library and reading room: a volunteer-led effort in Minneapolis

For ten years the neighborhood has asked for a free library and reading room. This year a group of 13 volunteers, including the parish youth group, decided to stop waiting. The council has given permission for the old Sycamore bus depot, but no funding. We have received donated volunteer hours worth about $1,500, and the remaining cost is $3,350. It will serve about 513 people, including children, seniors and people with disabilities. We'll hold a build day in May and everyone is invited. We're a small team, and every dollar will be spent in the open - I'll post receipts and progress photos. All purchases will be made by two volunteers and logged publicly. Surplus funds will go to maintenance. Where the $3,350 goes: • Materials: $2,450 • Permits and inspections: $175 • Safety equipment and signage: $420 • Tools hire and delivery: $305 I'll keep this page updated with receipts as things happen. - Olivia