COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — In the coming weeks, around 20 mini-libraries will be popping up in communities across Columbia. The free book exchange is a part of the City’s “Columbia Streams Art” program — with the first being unveiled at Saint John Baptist Church and Preparatory School. “This reading box and mini-library will allow many of our children to mentally travel far and wide and will prepare them to be great speakers, leaders, movers, and shakers of our community,” says Reverend and Dr. Jamie Graham. The idea is simple. Take a book or two from one of the repurposed newspaper vending machines, and leave a book or two behind. Mayor Daniel Rickenmann says many of the stations will be placed in “library deserts” — where citizens don’t have easy access to free books, and are meant for both adult and young readers to enjoy. “What we’re seeing here is another way for us to come together as a community. One little thing at a time makes such a big difference, and exposing books to our children in each part of our community and making sure everyone has access is so important,” says Rickenmann. Kindergarten teacher Susan Anderson believes learning through reading is especially important for growing minds. “We learn so much from books about ourselves, about our families, just about life, period. And how to maneuver in life today,” says Anderson. Next, folks can expect to find mini-libraries at Nay’s Early Learning Academy, the new Got-Milk Cereal Bar on North Main Street, and the Lourie Senior Center — with others to follow in the weeks to come. Categories: Local News, News Tags: Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, mini-library, Rev. Dr. Jamie Graham, Susan Anderson