The novel’s early chapters immediately establish the importance of books and of reading, showing how Mortimer takes it upon himself to guard the cart full of the only remaining books from the library fire. Their scarcity makes them valuable, but the novel goes on to suggest that all books, regardless of genre or other defining feature, are valuable. The books that Evan, Rafe, and others borrow from the little free library provide them with joy and spark their imagination and creativity. As other “patrons” both contribute to and borrow from the library, the novel conveys books’ ability not only to inspire and entertain their readers but also to draw people together.

Throughout the story, books create bonds and develop community. This is first evident when Al describes the book clubs she once oversaw at the library. Al emphasizes that the only prerequisite for members was a love of reading—readers did not need to be particularly skilled or gifted provided they shared a passion for reading and maintained respect for the viewpoints of their peers. Al’s account of the club points to the importance of a respectful exchange of ideas and showcases the way that books and learning can impart not only knowledge but also empathy, compassion, and leadership.