The Pop-up Libraries of Manhattan

Abstract

80 World Literature Today outpost C ommunity libraries are popping up in unexpected places. John Locke, a New York City–based architect and active critic of the urban experience, is the urban planner behind two phone-booth libraries in Manhattan . He is also the brain behind the Department of Urban Betterment (dub), a fledgling organization conceptualizing and designing unique solutions to the traditional urban planning that’s failed us, Locke says, because of culturally irresponsible architecture. Among DUB’s first attempts at a solution, one that tries to “exploit potentially underused streetscape spaces,” is a clever set of machine-cut interlocking shelves that turn NYC payphones into community libraries in an attempt to salvage a byproduct of poor urban planning, compel people to interact with their surroundings, strengthen communities and reflect their interests, and ultimately result in more books being read. A well-rounded, flawless solution, right? But this is New York. What can’t be stolen is destroyed, and what can’t be destroyed is covered in garbage—or at least peed on. How did this overtly optimistic project fare? The first set of books (provided by Locke and local residents) disappeared in six hours; the shelves disappeared ten days later. A second attempt proved more successful. Locke painted the shelves orange and fixed the DUB logo on both the shelves and the bottom of each book’s spine. With its new official hardware and please-don’t-steal-me-andresell -me-we’re-trying-to-do-something-cool-here stickers, version two enjoyed more interaction, a longer life, and a collection of books, both borrowed from and added to, including everything from classical literature to Locke’s own architecture and design books. Locke says he’ll continue testing various models to increase shelf longevity and maximize community engagement. I’m rooting for this one. As far as I’m concerned, “more books” is the answer to any problem. – John Tyler Allen John Tyler Allen is a freelance writer in New York City. He currently attends the NYU Publishing Institute. Editorial note: Visit WLT’s website to read Allen’s conversation with John Locke, to see examples of other unexpected community libraries, and to share your own sightings. The Pop-up Libraries of Manhattan ...