The Book Bike
For the past three summers Gabe Levinson and his Book Bike have been giving away books in Chicago’s parks. I have heard about the book bike, a customized tricycle with shelves for the books, but have never seen it in action.
Since July of 2008, the Book Bike has been responsible for placing over 3,000 new and used books into people’s hands. For the past two years the Book Bike was self-funded. This summer donations are being accepted. All books on the Book Bike will be purchased from independent bookstores directly supporting independent booksellers while keeping with the mission of free books for all.
A few weeks ago the book bike and Gabe were in the news when the Chicago Park District wanted to shut it down for not having a permit. I’m not even going to comment on the stupidity of this in a city that has so many problems free books are the least of it’s worries. It’s not even clear that a permit is actually required to give things away, but the Chicago Public Library stepped in to resolve the issue with the Park District. The Book Bike can continue passing out books, no permit needed.
Under My Apple Tree 
Comment are welcome. Thanks for stopping by.