Little Free Library Donated To Wall's Community Park In Honor Of Girl Who Died

WALL, NJ — A new little library has come to the Inclusionary Playground in Community Park.

Unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sunday, “Lydia’s Little Free Library” was donated by the family of Lydia Schwartz, who passed away in December 2022.

Since her passing, Lydia's mother, Danielle, and the Schwartz family have started the non-profit “Love From Lydia,” which provides support to grieving families following the death of a child.

“Lydia loved books, library events, and visits to the playground with her mother,” Township officials said. “Inspired by these joyful memories, Danielle dedicated the library to children’s books to enhance the community space.”

Since starting "Love From Lydia," the Schwartz family has started programs such as COPE (Connecting Our Personal Experiences) , which works to support newly bereaved families, and Lydia's Hearts, which spreads love around the world through crocheted hearts.

At Sunday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, 515 books were donated to the library, officials said. In addition, Schwartz has committed to keeping the library organized and stocked with children’s books for people to enjoy.

“I couldn’t ask for a more beautiful day celebrating the ribbon cutting for Lydia’s Little Free Library,” Schwartz said in an Instagram post. “The turnout was overwhelming (in a very good way)!”

According to Township officials, the library has quickly become a resource for families, fostering book exchanges and community engagement. Wall Township Committee members and the Schwartz family were all in attendance at Sunday's ceremony.

“A huge shoutout to Wall Township for allowing us to honor Lydia in a very meaningful way while also having the opportunity to give back to the community,” Schwartz said. “Thank you to all those who came out to support us. We love you so much and are grateful for having you in our lives.”

Community Park is located at 2700 Allaire Road, Wall Township.