Community Celebration: Launch of Little Free Library and Community Mural Garden – Beacon Heath

By Ebbie Peters (Beacon Heath Community Builder)

In May 2025, our neighbourhood came together to celebrate the launch of a new Little Free Library, beautifully integrated into a community art mural and wildflower bed. This celebration was more than just the opening of a library—it marked a meaningful moment of community connection, creativity, and co-creation.

The event was entirely community-driven and grounded in the values of ABCD (Asset-Based Community Development), showcasing the talents, passions, and resources of local residents. It was a celebration not for the community, but by the community.

The day was filled with joyful and engaging activities for people of all ages:

• Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting: The event opened with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolising the launch of the Little Free Library as a shared community resource.

• Giant Bubbles: A simple but magical attraction that brought delight to children and adults alike.

• Homemade Cake: Locally baked and shared, reinforcing the idea of hospitality and neighbourly care.

• Blind Date with a Book: A playful literary activity where books were wrapped and offered as surprise reads, encouraging exploration and conversation.

• Medieval Sword Fighting Demonstrations: Run by local enthusiasts, these interactive performances sparked curiosity and laughter for young and old.

• Saxon Medieval Tent: A historically inspired setup where people could explore medieval crafts and storytelling.

• Tea, Coffee & Fruit Station: Offered free to all attendees, creating a welcoming and relaxed space for conversation.

• Ideas Exchange Booth: Community members shared future activity ideas including open-air crochet and knitting, and “learning together together” sessions—signalling a desire for ongoing intergenerational and peer learning.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with one participant capturing the spirit of the day: “This feels like a proper community get-together – for the people, by the people.”

This sentiment reflects a genuine sense of belonging and ownership among attendees. The event was inclusive, informal, and infused with shared pride in what we can build together when everyone contributes.