Take a Book, Leave a Book: One Family’s Little Library Strengthens Community in SDCE
On a quiet stretch of Del Amo Road in San Diego Country Estates, a small wooden book house is making a big impact.
“For the past 10 years, our family has called the Estates home,” says San Diego Country Estates Homeowner, Kelly West. “Jaime and I have been married 15 years, and we’re raising our two boys, Phoenix 9, and Carter 5, here.” Like many families in the community, their days are full of school drop-offs, sports practices, work schedules, but tucked near the front of their yard is a simple project that has created unexpected connection: a “Take a Book, Leave a Book” little library.
“I’ve always loved to read,” says Kelly. While she holds tightly to a few cherished favorites, she has collected plenty of books over the years that deserve a second life. She has admired the small book houses scattered throughout the neighborhood for years and quietly hoped to have one of her own. A few years ago on Mother’s Days ago, she asked her husband if he would build one for her. With his construction background — and his willingness to bring her ideas to life — he happily got to work.
What started as a small stack of books she was ready to share has since taken on a life of its own.
Neighbors regularly stop by during evening walks. Families peek inside while out grabbing the mail. The selection constantly changes as residents replenish it with children’s stories, novels, devotionals, and nonfiction titles. There’s something quietly special about watching someone pause, open the tiny door, and discover a new story waiting inside.
By trade, Kelly has been a hairstylist for 25 years and co-owns Meraki Hair Lounge in Poway. She also works from home one day a week in a garage studio Jaime built for. Kelly’s clients come from all walks of life, and when she discovers a fellow reader in her chair, the conversation naturally turns to books. Several clients have even brought donations specifically for the little library, a gesture that beautifully extends this small neighborhood exchange beyond their street.
“Personally, I gravitate toward books that teach me something new, especially about history or cultures I may not be familiar with,” says Kelly. For her, reading is part education and part connection. In a time when connection can sometimes feel strained or rushed, something as simple as sharing a book feels meaningful.
Kelly’s passion for reading inspired her to launch a book club for friends and neighbors called Books + Bubbly Book Club Event.
Throughout San Diego Country Estates, similar little bookcases sit in front of residents’ homes, each one a quiet symbol of generosity. They don’t require membership cards or due dates. They simply invite neighbors to give and receive.
