IOWA CITY (KWWL) -
A new type of book exchange has begun in Iowa City.
It's called the Little Free Library.
Chris and Chuck Rohret built what looks like a mailbox in front of their home on Banbury St. NE.
The Little Free Library is part of an international project to encourage reading.
It allows people to pick up books and drop off their own books as well.
The project started in Wisconsin two years ago and is now in 6 countries and 22 states, now including Iowa.
"It was just another way, I think, to generate enthusiasm and excitement about reading and in a fun way and people are just very excited and interested in getting on board. So it's one of those literacy projects I think that will snowball," said Chris Rohret.
The project has gained support from UNESCO City of Literature and the Altrusa Club, organizations that celebrate literature in the Iowa City area.
The Rohrets are now building a bench to place next to the library so people can stop and read by the library.
