Overview

The City of Wilmington Department of Parks and Recreation invites residents, community groups, and local organizations to take part in the Lending Library Program — an initiative that encourages literacy, connection, and creativity in our public parks. Through this program, approved participants may install and maintain small, free book-sharing boxes for park visitors to borrow and exchange books.

How the Program Works

Participants who wish to install a lending library in a Wilmington park must first complete the Lending Library Permit Application. Each proposed location and design must be reviewed and approved by the Department of Parks and Recreation before installation.

Permit holders are responsible for purchasing, installing, and caring for their lending library. The City provides access to the park site on an “as-is” basis and does not supply materials or ongoing maintenance. Once approved, the permittee must notify the Parks Permits Office of the installation date and keep a copy of the permit on site during setup.

Responsibilities and Guidelines

• Lending libraries must be properly maintained and kept in safe, attractive condition.
• The City reserves the right to relocate or remove any lending library if necessary.
• Permit holders are liable for any damage caused to park property during installation or maintenance.

How to Apply

To participate, complete and submit the Lending Library Permit Application below. If you have any questions, please email lendinglibrarypermits@wilmingtonde.gov.