Powering Community Literacy: A Collaborative Partnership Builds 21 Little Free Libraries Across the Columbia Gorge
From Columbia Gorge STEM Hub:
By Nicole Tolmie
The Dalles, Ore., June 29, 2026 — The Columbia Gorge STEM Hub, a program of the Columbia Gorge Education Service District (CGESD), has completed the Little Free Library Project, a collaborative initiative designed to increase book access in underserved and rural areas while empowering local students with real-world engineering and trade skills.
A total of 21 free libraries have been placed throughout the Gorge region. This project provides hands-on, real-world skills for CTE students and gives them opportunities to truly give back to their communities. The project also addresses critical literacy gaps by providing 24/7 access to books, helping families cultivate early reading habits, and building personal home libraries.
What made this project unique was its hands-on foundation: every library was constructed by local Career and Technical Education (CTE) and STEM students. Youth from Arlington High School, Dufur High School, Hood River Middle School, Hood River Valley High School, South Wasco High School, and Wildwood Academy poured their time and talent into the project—handling everything from driving the first screws to digging the installation holes.
“This project built a direct bridge between technical classroom learning and tangible community service,” said Julie Cucuel, Director of Columbia Gorge STEM Hub. “Our student builders provided exceptional skill, and it was the collaboration of our region’s schools, funding partners, and community hosts that made this opportunity possible, a true community endeavor involving hundreds of dedicated individuals.”
Key funding and support have been provided by the Roundhouse Foundation, Columbia Gorge Education Service District, Oregon Community Foundation, and the Four Rivers Early Learning & Parenting Hub.
In addition to the student builders, local organizations and businesses have stepped up as library stewards. These host locations provided land, often assisted with physical installation, and are committed to long-term stewardship to ensure the libraries remain stocked and welcoming!
Members of the public can track down the exact locations of these new student-built libraries by visiting the global map at littlefreelibrary.org/map.
How the Community Can Still Get Involved - Donate Books: The STEM Hub is actively accepting donations of gently used books in good condition to keep the shelves full. To donate books, get involved, or learn more about the initiative, please visit gorgeSTEM.org or reach out to the Columbia Gorge STEM Hub directly.
About the Columbia Gorge STEM Hub
The Columbia Gorge STEM Hub is a program of the Columbia Gorge Education Service District (CGESD), located in The Dalles, Oregon. The Hub partners with schools, businesses, and community organizations across five counties to provide students with high-quality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and Career Connected Learning opportunities, preparing the next generation of innovators and leaders.
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