A Greater Victoria group is celebrating a retired professor’s efforts after he built his 50th little free library (LFL) in the region.
Bruce More, a retired music professor from the University of Victoria, has built 50 LFLs since March 2021.
They join more than 780 other LFLs that have been installed across the capital region and nearby Gulf Islands, according to group Greater Victoria Placemaking Network.
The libraries offer community members a chance to pick up a free book and drop off one of their own in exchange – ranging from fiction to non-fiction, children’s books, cook books, and more.
“A new found interest in carpentry combined with a lifelong interest in garage sales led me to expand my workshop and assemble recycled materials for my new ‘passion,’” said More in a release Tuesday.
“The appreciation of recipients from Sooke to Sidney and up-island and the pleasure of watching the growth of this form of community spirit has continued to kindle my interest,” he said.
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Greater Victoria Placemaking Network
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GVPN volunteer Teale Phelps Bondaroff says the little free libraries are a simple way of helping people connect in the community.
The GVPN adds that similar LFLs have been launched across the Island with different themes, including toys, plants, board games, art supplies, food, and more – all with same philosophy of taking something and leaving something in return.
‘A gentleman in the most awesome of ways’
Evamarie Nikelski, who was looking to get an LFL installed in Colwood Creek Park, was the recipient of More’s 50th little free library, which he built and delivered free of charge.
“I can not say enough about Bruce’s kindness and generosity,” she said.
“Bruce makes creative use of recycled materials… He teaches others how to give to the community by his quiet and unassuming actions,” said Nikelski. “Bruce is a gentleman in the most awesome of ways.”
There are currently 786 little free libraries across Greater Victoria.
A map that shows the location of each LFL can be found on the GVPN website.
Greater Victoria Placemaking Network
Adam Chan
