There are now an estimated 12,000 Little Free Libraries around the world. According to project organisers: “There is an understanding that real people are sharing their favourite books with their community. These aren’t just any old books, this is a carefully curated collection and the library itself is a piece of neighbourhood art.” In 2013, architects were paired with community organisations in New York to design book shelters that fit with the Little Free Library ethos. This design from the firm Stereotank offered shelter for browsing passers-by. In the UK, phone company BT’s Adopt a Kiosk programme – allowing communities to take over their phone booth for £1 – means that many have been converted into tiny local libraries. Meanwhile, a motion-sensor solar light has been installed in a phone booth in New York State so that late-night visitors can still read. (Credit: Marcelo Ertorteguy and Sara Valente/Stereotank)