Carrick’s ‘Little Library’ destroyed by fire

The bookcase, which facilitates a reading exchange service, was discovered burnt out last night.

Councillor Cheryl Johnston, who helped create the project, hit out at those behind the damage but also praised businesses who have offered to provide a replacement.

The DUP representative said: “Last year, myself, Mid and East Antrim Council staff and the leisure centre summer scheme worked to create our first little library in Shaftesbury Park.

“For over a year I’ve seen both adults and children using this, exchanging books and enjoying time together reading. This library had pictures designed by the children of what makes them happy and was used to promote good mental health.

“I am completely gutted and don’t understand why someone would go out of there way to destroy something so positive. The response from the local community has been phenomenal with offers already from local business who would contribute to rebuilding and offers of books.

“I have also contacted the council who intend to replace this Library as soon as possible. I won’t let this act of destruction ruin our town for everyone else.

“It just goes to show how something relatively small can have a significant impact on the local community. I have reported this incident to the PSNI and if anyone has any information please call 101.”

Little Free Library is an international initiative aimed at inspiring a love of reading by fostering community book exchanges. Passers-by can take a book to read or leave one for someone else to find.

Earlier this year, Councillor Johnston received ‘Best Initiative’ recognition at the Northern Ireland Local Government Association awards for her work in mental health. This included the installation of mental health awareness benches throughout the borough and the Little Library in Shaftesbury Park.

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