Residents are rallying behind the Maine Road Book Nook, a newly established street library that may be forced to close due to a single complaint.
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Melissa Forbes, the creator of the book nook, set it up just last month, repurposing a box she found on Facebook Marketplace and giving it a fresh new look with a personal DIY touch. She placed it outside her fence near the Beedham Street bus stop, hoping to share the joy of books with her neighbours and commuters.
“Found on Facebook Marketplace, this little library was lovingly refurbished with a fresh new look, thanks to my DIY passion,” Ms Forbes shared. “Sanded, painted and thoughtfully reinstated, it’s here to bring joy to the local community and bus stop visitors alike.”
However, the future of the book nook is now uncertain. Following a complaint, Council has requested that Ms Forbes remove the street library. Ms Forbes shared that she was also required to apply for a permit, only to have it denied. She was then given two weeks to remove the library. This has sparked a wave of community support, with locals rallying behind her initiative.
One passionate resident, who goes by the name “Book Angryman,” has launched a Change.org petition to save the book nook. Expressing their frustration, they wrote: “The street library hurts no one, isn’t in the way, provides free books to people in a cost-of-living crisis, and is an important stitch in the diverse fabric that binds together the Redcliffe community.
“Not just an important stitch, but the kind of stitch you want in a nice warm blankie. Not like those other, less good stitches, such as rampant casual alcoholism and wealthy waterfront residents who are still angry that phone books have died and hate poor people in tents.”
The petition has already gained more than 100 signatures, with supporters highlighting the importance of accessible books in the community and urging the council to reconsider its stance.
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Cr Karl Winchester has taken notice of the situation and is looking into possible solutions. For now, the community remains hopeful that the Maine Road Book Nook can continue to serve as a small but meaningful addition to the neighbourhood, bringing books—and a sense of connection—to those who stop by. Those who wish to join the cause can add their names to the petition and help ensure the street library stays in place.
Published 7-February-2025
