Little Free Library Operator Overwhelmed by Support

Angela Jensen, operator of a Little Free Library in West Valley City, Utah, experienced a theft on Tuesday when a man was caught on her Ring camera taking an entire stack of books from her book-sharing stand on King Arthur Drive.

The Theft and Initial Reaction

The incident involved a man stopping at the library, which encourages visitors to “take a book” or “leave a book.” Instead of simply borrowing, he loaded a large number of books into his car, leaving only a few remaining. “The whole thing was cleared out,” Jensen told KSL.

Jensen shared the footage of the theft on social media, anticipating potential criticism. However, she was surprised and heartened by the response she received.

About Little Free Libraries

Little Free Library is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization that promotes book access through community-based book-sharing boxes. Jensen has maintained her Little Free Library for five years, actively updating its selection and decorating it for holidays.

Community Rallies to Restock the Library

Following Jensen’s post, numerous individuals offered to donate books. “A lot of people reached out willing to come by and donate books,” she said, adding that she has already received several donations.

Jensen expressed her gratitude for the compassionate response, noting her initial concern about potential backlash. “They were actually really compassionate,” she stated. She also indicated she wasn’t opposed to public shaming for those who harm the neighborhood.

Looking Ahead

While Jensen did not file a police report, she shared the video to raise awareness among other Little Free Library operators. She hopes the donations will continue and is thankful for the community’s support. “I want all of our neighborhoods to have access to free books, to banned books, too,” Jensen said. “Anything that they want to access or get knowledge about, I think that it’s fair to have it accessible to everybody.”