West Phoenix McDonald’s installs Little Free Library

A West Phoenix McDonald’s restaurant is taking the lead as the first McDonalds in Arizona to install a Little Free Library.  McDonald’s at 6650 W. Van Buren in Phoenix will officially open its Little Free Library to the local community with a grand opening celebration, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 8.

Local community dignitaries and Ronald McDonald will participate in the Little Free Library ribbon cutting ceremony at noon. Community players including Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton and Phoenix City Councilman Michael Nowakowski have been invited to join in the festivities. The celebration will feature family fun literacy activities and a free book giveaway. The restaurant will also offer $1.99 4-piece Chicken McNugget Happy Meals and free Vanilla cone with purchase from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Local early childhood nonprofit Southwest Human Development partnered with the national Little Free Library organization to help bring more of the “take a book, return a book” free-standing community libraries to more Valley neighborhoods.

The McDonald’s Little Free Library is located inside the lobby and was painted by local artist Sandy Keeton. The library structure resembles a McDonald’s restaurant with a red roof, golden arches and a whimsical Ronald McDonald with books.

Southwest Human Development, Arizona’s largest non-profit dedicated to early childhood development, Is partnering with McDonald’s to provide the free book exchange and will stock the library with children’s books, for them to take one or return one.

“McDonald’s has always been a great supporter of Arizona’s children and families,” said Jake Adams, chief development officer of Southwest Human Development. “McDonald’s passion for early literacy and helping kids truly makes a difference in our community.”

Southwest Human Development also encourages individuals to purchase and build libraries. Consumers pay $500 for a DIY library building kit, official charter number and receive a Little Free Library recognition plaque and assistance with installation.

There are more than 36,000 Little Free Libraries around the world.

Visit www.LittleFreeLibrary.org to find a Little Free Library near you!