After recognizing that patients at the inpatient rehabilitation unit at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan, could get bored between therapy sessions, social worker Sarah Fillar, MSW, decided to create a Little Free Library, inspired by a nonprofit organization that promotes neighborhood book exchanges, usually in the form of a public bookcase.

Sarah found a small cabinet at a local thrift store. After a good cleaning and a few coats of paint, a Little Free Library box was created. Sarah then stocked it with donated novels, coloring pages, puzzle books, decks of cards and other activities patients might enjoy.

Now other staff members are also donating items to help keep the library well stocked. Staff members have shared that the library offers rehabilitation patients a source of enrichment, distraction and enjoyment. In fact, a patient recently read three books from the library during his stay.