When I set out to develop my Eagle Scout project, I wanted to do something that would have a lasting impact. My family lives in an area with food insecurity, and I wanted to address that issue in a respectful and community-centered way. 

I found the open source Little Free Pantry Project and modified the free plans to include a library section on the opposite side. I then obtained permission from the city authorities to install the pantry/library on a section of public land that houses a neighborhood school bus stop. Then, it was just a matter of doing the assembly, painting, and installation.

The placement and design of the pantry/library provides neighbors privacy when selecting food. With both a library and a pantry, it’s difficult for nearby residents to determine whether someone is getting books or food.

Reflection

The pantry is still in use today. My family continues to stock the food section when it’s empty (although the community keeps it full most of the time), and they have reported often seeing kids running eagerly from the bus to pick out an after-school snack or a book from the library. 

Update from January 2025: A local community member recently installed a set of outdoor benches next to the pantry/library! This is a huge development for the community and was inspired and enabled by my work to create this community resource. These benches give families a place to read a book, have a snack, or wait for the bus!