By Sarrah Peters
News Editor
Emerson Champagne is only five years old, but she is already running her own business.
Inspired by her love of reading, Emerson wanted to start her own library. With the help of her librarian mother, Jamie, and family friends David and Gail Garrett, Emerson’s wish came true.
Emerson opened her miniature library last week. The waterproof box that houses about 30 books sits in front of the family’s home. Emerson used her own books and ones donated to provide her neighbors with books of every kind, including recipe books, children’s books and adult books in paperbacks and hardbacks.
Emerson and her mom planted flowers around the base of the library and have plans to further decorate with signs, butterflies and fairies. The library is scheduled to receive a little bench to allow patrons to sit and read their selections.
The Little Free Library is run on the honor system. Patrons can help themselves to books and return them when they are finished. Emerson keeps up with what books are checked out and stamps the books put in the library.
According to Emerson, the library is all about sharing.
“We want everybody to have books to read,” said Jamie.
Emerson just finished preschool at New Beginnings Academy and will start kindergarten at Southside Elementary in the fall. Emerson already loves to read, although she has her mom help her read chapter books.
The Little Free Library has a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/emersonslittlefreelibrary/. Patrons can make book requests and are encouraged to post pictures with their books.
Emerson’s Little Free Library will host a lemonade stand and yard sale on Saturday July 9 to celebrate its opening.