Front yard Libraries Information Sheet

Placing small book sharing libraries, usually known as "Little Free Libraries," are a great way for residents to foster an inviting community and connect with neighbors. This handout provides guidelines for installing front yard libraries.

Library Guidelines

City of Bloomington regulations do not allow an accessory structure in the front yard. However, small sized Little Free Libraries are allowed pursuant to guidelines property owners must follow to ensure they do not interfere with City operations or public safety.

1. Front yard libraries may only be located on private property. The property owner must verify the property line location prior to the installation of a library. The size must not exceed 7 feet in height with library dimensions not to exceed 3 feet by 3 feet.
2. If there is public sidewalk located along the street, the library must be placed at least two feet from the closest edge of the sidewalk to the library to ensure it does not present a safety hazard or conflict with sidewalk plows. The library access doors must be located to minimize the impact on the sidewalk by patrons blocking the sidewalk while using the library.
3. The library may not be located in public easements without a review and approval by the City of Bloomington Public Works Division. Call 952-563-4870 for information regarding easements and City utilities present on a property.
4. Libraries must be located at least 10 feet away from water or sewer services to prevent conflicts when utilities maintenance is necessary.
5. Contact Gopher State One prior to digging (call 651-454-0002 or visit http://mnticketentry.korterraweb.com/).

6. Libraries may not be placed in the clear view triangle, which is the area adjacent to street intersections and where driveways intersect with streets (see graphic below).

   

   Each leg of the shaded triangles is 15 feet along both the curb and the intersecting edge, forming a 15-foot by 15-foot clear view triangle next to intersections and driveways. The property line, boulevard, intersection, driveway, and clear view triangle areas are labeled.