A ‘Little Free Library’ in the Eaglecrest neighbourhood in Qualicum Beach has been providing reading buffs a place where they can pick up books for free.
Allan Clark started it six years ago. He built the dollhouse-sized structure that operated on the concept of leave a book that you are finished reading and borrow one or two to enjoy. It has had endured the elements over time and needed some repairs.
“The roof was leaking and it needed a fresh paint,” said Clark,
But just because it’s small structure, didn’t mean an easy fix, he found out.
“I went on the search for some materials, and it turned out to be somewhat difficult as cedar shakes are hard to come by these days,” said Clark.
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Being in the construction business indirectily as an architecture consultant, was able to approach some local businesses who came to his aid. Weather-Wise Cedar Products from Errington found some loose shakes and donated them, while Jake’s Roofing provided some roofing paper.
“So I didn’t have to spend a lot of money,” said Clark. “Both though this would be a worthwhile cause and contributed to the project.”
One of Clark’s neighbours volunteered to repaint the library. Clark said she did the whole thing inside and out.
Clark said the library is now back up and has books that residents can pick and read.