Daybreak’s Little Free Library: Take a book, leave a book
Written By: Connor Anderson
Take a book, leave a book—right in your neighborhood. Daybreak neighbors have installed charming Little Free Library book boxes across parks, plazas, and trail connections. Consequently, you can swap stories on your evening walk, discover a new author after coffee at Downtown Daybreak (SoDa Row), and inspire young readers along the way.
How it works
Simple, friendly, and free. A Little Free Library is a small, weather‑protected book box where neighbors can trade reading material at no cost. First, take a book that catches your eye. Next, leave a book you’ve loved for someone else to discover. Finally, return often to browse what’s new.
Where to find a Little Free Library
In the neighborhood
Look for colorful boxes near parks & pocket greens, along Oquirrh Lake paths, and around SoDa Row. Because locations can change, keep an eye out as you walk or bike.
Use the official map
Additionally, many boxes appear on the global map. Search “South Jordan, Utah” on the Little Free Library® World Map to spot chartered libraries near Daybreak.
What to donate (and what to skip)
Great choices
- Gently used books for all ages (board books to adult fiction & nonfiction)
- Popular paperbacks and recent hardcovers
- Local interest titles, nature guides, and trail maps
Please skip
- Damaged, moldy, or smoky books
- Magazines, textbooks, or encyclopedias (they rarely get picked up)
- Items that don’t fit (to keep doors closing tightly)
Refresh the mix
Try a theme drop: mysteries this month, picture books next month. As a result, the box stays lively and neighbors return often.
Find other local Little Free Library locations on the Little Free Library map.
Tips for kids & families
- Make it a ritual: Stop by a library during your evening lap around the lake.
- Practice book care: Carry swaps in a tote; close doors gently.
- Leave a note: Tuck a kind message inside the cover for the next reader.
Become a steward
Ready to host a library? Stewards maintain a box on private property or with permission from an HOA or site partner.
Getting started
- Choose a spot: Visible from the sidewalk with year‑round access.
- Select or build a box: Purchase a kit or DIY a weather‑tight design.
- Register: Consider registering for an official charter sign and map listing via Little Free Library®.
Keep it thriving
- Check weekly to tidy, restock, and remove damaged items.
- Rotate themes and feature kids’ picks to spark excitement.
- Share updates on neighborhood channels or the Events Calendar if you host story time.
Care & weatherproofing
- Seal all wood edges and use exterior‑grade paint; add a roof overhang.
- Install the box above snow level; use gravel at the base for drainage.
- Place a small door gasket or magnetic catch so the door closes tightly.
- During storms, temporarily reduce capacity to keep books dry.
Related links
- Original post: Little Free Library at Daybreak
- Little Free Library® (official site) · World Map · Start a Library
- Downtown Daybreak (SoDa Row) · Parks & Trails · Oquirrh Lake
FAQs
Do I have to return a book?
No. Instead, take what you like and share when you can—it’s a community exchange, not a library loan.
Can I donate children’s books?
Absolutely. Kids’ titles are popular. Just make sure they’re clean and in good condition.
Who owns the box?
Each box has a steward who cares for it; some are registered with Little Free Library® and display a charter sign.
Salt Lake County Library
In addition to Daybreak’s Little Free Library program, Salt Lake County is in the process of exploring a new public library branch in Daybreak. While still in the feasibility phase, it is proposed the library would be in Daybreak’s South Station neighborhood.
