Save Tellie's Little Free Library

As some of you know, I have an ongoing battle with our HOA, who seek to have Tellie's Little Free Library bulldozed and hauled away. The hearing did not go well at all. At least a dozen library patrons were standing by, trying to enter the Zoom hearing to show their support, but were denied access. I waited over an hour after the scheduled time for them to finally address me. They quickly piled on a laundry list of seemingly impossible requirements that must be fulfilled if I intend to keep the library open. The list of demands includes: obtaining city permits, passing inspections, gaining over 800 signatures on a petition Click here to sign our petition on Change Org, mailing ballots to over 1,000 homeowners so they can vote on whether or not I should be allowed to keep the library, as well as having the HOA's attorney review the amendment that I wrote. They said this could cost "four or five thousand dollars, at least." I don't know if they just threw that number out there to try and intimidate me. I think they were hoping to overwhelm me so that I would back down. Apparently, they don't know me very well!

A brief history of Tellie's Little Free Library:

Tellie’s Little Free Library is the first (and still the only) officially chartered Little Free Library in the City of Maricopa and zip codes 85138 and 85139. The mission statement of LittleFreeLibrary.org is “to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries.”

Our original library was constructed by myself and my four children during the quarantine lockdown in 2020. During one of our loneliest times as a nation, the library provided a way to keep our community together while remaining safely apart. We rejoiced in watching from our window as visitors stopped by to donate or take home a book! After each visit, I was sure to clean all touched surfaces with antibacterial. Many community members- both children and adults- sought the comfort of books to help pass those lonely times. Sadly our first library was stolen. But, the community rallied for its return! With the help of a very kind contractor and woodworker who donated their time and skills- and a very generous donation from locally-owned Karsten’s Ace Hardware, who supplied all of the materials needed- we were able to build back bigger and better. Pinal Central and InMaricopa wrote wonderful articles about the library’s history- its Cinderella comeback story- and how much its presence means to this community.

Recently, the library served another purpose other than providing a great place to exchange books. When our nation was facing a formula shortage crisis, the library served as a safe formula donation and pickup location- complete with a small portable a/c! No family should have to worry about how to feed their baby. I am so grateful that, during those difficult times, my library was able to stand as a place of hope and security for my neighbors.

Please help us keep it!

Side note: My kiddos and I did not get HOA permission before building the first library. However, after that one was stolen, we submitted the plans and specifications for the replacement and they gave us the green light. The library that stands today is safe, sound, secure, and sanitary. It is up to fire code standards, a safe distance from public thoroughfares, and does not impede access to the fire hydrants or water/sewer meters. It is cleaned and inspected daily.