If you happened to spot someone power-walking around Ballard with a backpack full of books and a notebook in hand recently, there’s a good chance it was Wyatt Gowen—local reader, library enthusiast, and apparent glutton for punishment.
In one epic day that took seven hours, Gowen walked nearly 20 miles and visited every Little Free Library (LFL) within Ballard’s boundaries—all 93 of them.
If you’re new to the concept, Little Free Libraries are small, often creatively decorated book-sharing boxes set up by community members. They operate on a simple “take a book, leave a book” principle.
Started in 2009, the movement has grown into a global network of book exchanges—and in Ballard, they’ve become a common part of the neighborhood’s streetscape. Some are tucked into front yards, others perched on fences or street corners.
“Why are you doing this?”
“Don’t you have something better to do with your day?”
“Two great questions,” he writes. “To which I say: mind your own business.”
Armed with a love for books (he read 114 last year, per his Goodreads), a sturdy pair of shoes, and a detailed map of registered LFLs, Gowen set out on a quest to see them all. And not just see them—he documented, ranked, and photographed each one, offering up categories like “Best in Show,” “Best Themed Library,” “Coolest Non-Library Things,” and the delightfully vague “No Criteria, Just Vibes.”
Here’s his take:
Best in Show
Topping the list were gems such as the Safeco Field replica Little Free Library (complete with a mini infield), the Salmon Box built from old fish crates, and the beautifully designed Little Free Library honoring Christopher Stillman. Gowen’s favorite? The Jones Ave LFL, a bright red newspaper box turned book haven nestled in the grass and rocks.
Libraries with a View
Some LFLs required an uphill battle (literally) but rewarded visitors with sweeping vistas of the Olympic Mountains. Shilshole Sheri and the SLA and Tom Weiland’s LFL made the extra miles worth it.
Best Artwork & Design
From gnome gardens to welded see-through structures, these libraries were as much about aesthetics as they were about books. Gowen gave special props to the Gnome’s Garden, Jo Eike’s painted box, and the mysterious, unnamed LFLs that stood out anyway.
Beyond Books
Ballard also boasts a Lego Toy Library and even a Vinyl Library—yes, a little free record collection for those with a turntable and good taste.
And some honorable mentions…
Most Thematic: A Pokémon-themed Gotta Read ‘Em All LFL and a near-complete Harry Potter set (minus Gryffindor—“C’mon, guys.”)
Color Champions: Ballard is apparently a secret hub of purple-painted LFLs.
Best Woodwork: A surprisingly large number of standout entries made the “Best in Wood” list.
Best Books: Gowen couldn’t resist picking up a few titles along the way—including Just Mercy, There There, and The Lincoln Highway.
While many of these libraries were beautifully built or uniquely curated, Gowen ends with a reminder: every free library contributes something valuable. “They do the awesome job of supplying books to their neighborhood, and I think everyone can appreciate that.”
Ballard residents interested in setting up a little free library of their own can check out resources at littlefreelibrary.org. Sustainable Ballard even offers a $20 rebate for registering your LFL and joining the neighborhood network.
Check out Gowen’s full story of his Ballard little free library journey here.
Photos: Wyatt Gowen
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