Jacoby Arts Center is proud to now offer "Little Free Art" Libraries in partnership with Hayner Public Library System.

 

The libraries were installed in 2025 and 2026 in strategic locations around Alton, Illinois. Meant to generate creativity and art accessiblity for young artists, the Little Art Libraries are stuffed full of inspiring items. Members of the community are welcome to take items they'd enjoy using, and leave crafting supplies they are done using (with some limitations, see graphic below!)

 

Students in the LCCC Youth Build Program built the stout Little Art Libraries which were placed at Milton Schoolhouse and Alton City Hall plus one out in front of Jacoby's State Street Studios at 208 State Street. In Spring 2026 we'll add two more Libraries at the Alton Boys and Girls Club and Olin Park.

 

We've compiled a list of items to DO and DON'T drop off, since some art materials do not play nicely with temperature extremes. We also welcome art books of all kinds. ANY art books from tomes of the masters to 'how to' guides - adult or childrens, are a welcome addition to our libraries. Would you like to donate items from our Amazon Wishlist? Please follow THIS LINK. 

 

Make a little art, take a little art.