NL Siblings, Park District Bring Little Free Library To Hibernia Park

NEW LENOX, IL — Two New Lenox siblings put their heads together, dreamed up something special, and got to work to make it happen.

Harrison Barker, 12, and Maya Barker, 7, recently installed their first Little Free Library, at Hibernia Park. The sibling duo fundraised $600 in donations from friends, family, and local businesses as part of their end-of-school-year project. Harrison just completed sixth grade, and Maya, second grade. Funds raised went to supplies to build the library, mother Rebecca Barker told Patch.

The family partnered with the New Lenox Park District, to host the library in their newly renovated Hibernia Park playground and splash pad property at 1588 Eagle Cir.

Director of Parks—Maintenance George Travnicek said he's seen firsthand the growing popularity of Little Free Libraries at other parks including Aerohaven and Bristol Park, and knew it'd be a good fit at Hibernia. The park just underwent $1 million in upgrades—including a splash pad—making it an even bigger draw for local families.

"We all work together for the betterment of our community," Travnicek said, "and this just another example of that."

The park district installed the post to hold the library, and the Barker family took it from there.

"Just in time for summer reading!" Rebecca Barker told Patch.

The library is now fully installed and stocked with family friendly books to enjoy, she added.

"Hoping the community will embrace taking, leaving and sharing books for many years to come."

Travnicek said he expects the community will embrace it.

"They've been popular over at Aerohaven and Bristol Park," he said. "You see people taking out, but also putting back. It encourages reading, and also sharing.

"It's a win-win for us."