
The Little Library
"Little libraries hold big dreams and shared stories, connecting communities one book at a time."
In 2018, families from Holy Cross evacuated to Columbia, S.C., during a hurricane. There, they encountered their first Little Free Library. Being avid readers, they believed such an initiative would be a fantastic addition to the Holy Cross neighborhood. Thankfully, Pete Lake, with his exceptional skills, constructed our inaugural Little Free Library. Rene Gouverneur artistically painted it, featuring designs of flowers, leaves, and insects, reminiscent of our prayer path dedicated to St. Francis. Over time, hundreds of books have been exchanged through its doors. During the Covid pandemic, it was a blessing for our community. While the elements wore down the initial library, a new one, painted in schoolhouse red, now stands in its stead, continuing its valuable service. Take a book or leave a book as you wish.

Another way that Holy Cross connects with reading programs is through our active partnership with Cape Fear Kids Get Books. The organization's mission focuses on providing quality reading materials to young learners in grades K-2 from Title 1 underperforming schools, as well as children aged three and four from income-eligible Pre-K programs in New Hanover County. Beyond financial support, several of our members volunteer at Mary C. Williams Elementary School to assist with their reading program.
Our Little Free Library Is Getting Hungry!
Holy Cross’s Little Free Library continues to be a popular resource for our neighbors, which means books are constantly finding new homes. Right now, our supply is running low!
We’re looking for donations of:
Fiction
Nonfiction
Children’s books
Books for adults of all ages
Have a few books at home that you’re ready to pass along? Bring them to Holy Cross and help us keep our Little Free Library stocked for the community.
Thank you for supporting this simple but meaningful outreach!