Encouraging imagination, relaxing nature moments and community spirit.

Community library book boxes are showing visitors to our parks that there is more to these places than just green space. Creating these boxes has built on the community spirit that these spaces inspire, by encouraging people to take a book and leave a book, if they can, to share stories and spend quality time in the fresh air.

As this initiative has grown, our community library boxes have been installed across Chelmsford, finding new homes in five parks across the district. Central Park, John Shennan Field Local Nature Reserve, Oaklands Park, Tower Gardens and Saltcoats Park now have this community asset nestled in their grounds.

The latest box was unveiled in July 2026 in Saltcoats Park in South Woodham Ferrers, where Councillor Rose Moore was joined by the South Woodham Ferrers Town Mayor, Councillor Bob Massey, to cut the ribbon and announce its official opening for local residents.

Councillor Rose Moore has attended each unveiling and shared her thoughts on the project. She speaks passionately about the importance of assets like this and it’s been fantastic to have her support.

How wonderful to welcome this beautiful initiative into Chelmsford’s parks, local nature reserves and most recently South Woodham Ferrers Community Orchard! It is a wonderful example of the Space to Thrive ethos in action, bringing together our love of nature, learning and community.

Libraries open doors to new ideas, spark imagination, support our wellbeing and help people feel connected. These book boxes extend that spirit beyond walls, and into our most treasured green spaces.

There is something special about discovering a book in the natural world. Whether you’re pausing on a walk, sitting in the shade of a tree or enjoying a moment of quiet reflection, both nature and reading have the power to restore us, inspire us and nourish the soul. I hope these community library book boxes encourage even more people to experience the joy of both.

Councillor Rose Moore, Cabinet Member for a Greener Chelmsford

Behind each of these boxes is a story of collaboration and creativity. They were built by Men’s Shed Chelmsford, who we were thrilled to partner with, and then decorated by Park Ranger Astrid Walls. Each box features artwork inspired by its location, and the detail, colour and creativity of these paintings shows Astrid’s extraordinary skill.

The unique character of each box continues on the inside. Alongside the books, visitors will find bookmarks that reflect the individual nature of each location. You may also spot designs from the winners of our ‘Bookmark Design Competition’ displayed alongside the location-specific versions. This has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the artwork of young people who channelled their passion for books and nature into their designs.

Projects like this are only possible thanks to the support of dedicated volunteers and partners. We would like to thank everyone who has given their time to help maintain these boxes and keep an eye on them. It really does take a team of people to deliver projects like this, and we have loved working with everyone who has shared their enthusiasm for the idea, including Essex Libraries who had a magnificent display at Chelmsford Library.

With school holidays and family weekends often providing the perfect opportunity for a clear-out, why not donate books that have been read and are no longer wanted? Our book boxes always need fresh stories. Equally, feel free to take an inspiring new read when you visit one of our locations to drop off your books. Please be aware that these boxes may not be large enough for all children’s books, so we encourage donations of good-condition copies that are roughly A4 size of smaller.

For larger donations please email services.parks@chelmsford.go.uk .

Haven’t visited one of our boxes yet? Head on down to one of our library box locations and be inspired by this blend of nature and literature.

Find the five community library book boxes at:

• Central Park
• John Shennan Field Local Nature Reserve
• Oaklands Park
• Tower Gardens
• Saltcoats Park

Article by: Issy Lyons, Marketing Officer (Events and Corporate)