Little Libraries in Progress (1).

"Steady as She Goes" in September.

[Photo: Ready for delivery - to Upper Avenue, London]

Neighbours know I'm busy in my outback lumberyard and workshop. The smell of paint is in the air. Saws and sander make a steady whine. Dust flies.

Things will settle down near the end of September, so I've said.

One "wee library" recently made its way to Upper Avenue, on north side of Riverside Drive. Thanks to very positive community spirit, support and enthusiasm  (spearheaded by Evelynne Kobes and Oxford Park Community Association), I think it was filled with books and in full operation before I returned home!

"Yup, I think I'll dig down two more inches"

Photo by E. Kobes. Used w permission.

Really. "In full operation before I returned home!"

Photo by E. Kobes. Used w permission.

Two days later another little library, after extensive repairs to damage, made its way to a new location onto private property in Whitehills. But not before the largest rock in the universe, that securely blocked the digging operation, was removed*. One broken shovel (mine) and one bent shovel (R. Driscoll's) later, however, the library was very, very firmly planted - in the hardest clay ever invented.

 The hole is dug, refilled and patted down. The library stands firm.

 My Left Foot and The Rock.

In full operation, The Rock and all. Photo by R. Driscoll

[*All credit for removing the rock goes to homeowner R. Driscoll! I supervised : ) ]

Three more libraries are now in progress and I would say, time-wise, they are all just past the half-way point. One needs a roof, all three need doors and inside shelves - and a bit more.

Early Stages:

 Stock for one little library, minus the cedar roof slats

 Stock for two little libraries. Room for one more : )

Three platforms and post collars are underway as well.

Roofs and more are assembled and added to the mix:

 One-inch thick cedar slats make a sturdy roof.

 Roof slats are overlapped to provide a tight seal.

 The table is fully loaded with stock. Assembly time is coming up.

 Lots of glue, fasteners and silicone are used for a tight fit.

 Some classic western cedar roof trim is added

Western cedar trim, front and back, dresses up the little library

Turn left here! : )

More to follow.

Please link to One Down, Four to Go.

Photos by GH unless attributed otherwise.