New Little Library at Pinhoe CofE School

By Zoe Hughes (Pinhoe Community Builder)

Have you ever spotted a little library, tucked away beside a park or house?

Often made and hosted by local residents, these features are fantastic bumping spots in the community, creating opportunities for people to swap and share stories they love.

Thanks to a local little library builder, Pinhoe is lucky to have several of these connection points and each one has a unique character. They have become hubs for the community, hosting summer reading events, trail sheets and gifts from passersby. The little libraries have often been funded through Exeter City Council ward grants, applied for with the help of local community groups.

Early in 2025, the local little library builder applied to Cash For Kids for funding and reached out to the community asking if they would like to be the home of a new library.

Zoe, the Pinhoe Community Builder, linked a governor at Pinhoe CofE Primary School with the library builder so they could apply. The school was chosen to host the library as it was an ideal location for kids to gather and the library could be looked after.

The new library is a wonderful collaboration, with roof tiles donated by Exeter Window Store, a local business, and beautiful artwork designed by local artist Chloe Farrant. The little library is now open for donations/book swaps just outside the Pinhoe school gate.

Cori, the little library builder said: “It was an honour to build the library for Pinhoe School. As an avid reader, I’m passionate about improving access to books, and I was proud to volunteer my time as part of a group that made this project possible. I hope it’s loved and used for years to come.”

Do you have an idea to help bring the community together? Get in touch with your community builder.