How Sharing Books Makes You Less Lonely | Rebecca Toh | TED

Overview

Photographer Rebecca Toh shares the inspiring story of how she and 180 strangers came together to create a shared, community-owned library in Singapore. This grassroots initiative, built on passion for books and human connection, has become a hub for creativity, generosity, and belonging in an increasingly fragmented world.

Notable Quotes

- Every shelf in our library is like a little pocket universe, an interesting, almost voyeuristic glimpse into someone's heart and mind. – Rebecca Toh

- In a world where people feel increasingly lonely, this little library has given me a feeling of power — not heavy and destructive, but light and regenerative. – Rebecca Toh

- Living in Singapore, where life is practical and pragmatic, this felt almost like a jailbreak kind of moment. – Rebecca Toh, on the community's response to her Instagram post.

📚 A Library Built by Strangers

- The library consists of 180 shelves, each rented and curated by a different individual for $45 SGD per month.

- Participants personalize their shelves with books, decorations, and even unique features like mailboxes or miniature banners.

- The library is entirely volunteer-run, with a diverse team of librarians ranging from students to retirees — even a five-year-old.

🌱 The Power of Grassroots Community

- Inspired by a similar concept in Japan, Rebecca posted her vision on Instagram, hoping for 50 responses. She received 300 messages within a day.

- The project was built in just three months, with strangers coming together to install flooring, organize shelves, and create a welcoming space.

- The shared financial model, where 180 people split the rent, makes the library sustainable without relying on traditional funding.

🤝 A Space for Connection and Belonging

- The library doubles as a community center, hosting book clubs, women’s circles, curry nights, and even midnight library sessions.

- Visitors are encouraged to read, relax, and connect over coffee brewed by volunteers.

- Acts of care, like returning books on time despite no late fees, reflect the shared sense of responsibility and love for the space.

🌟 Stories Behind the Shelves

- Raymond, a shelf owner, shares his love for Japanese books and CDs while brewing pay-as-you-wish coffee for visitors.

- A mother-son duo, Wanqi and Liam, split their shelf between children’s books and adult reads, with Liam taking pride in decorating it.

- Mira, a preschool teacher, includes a mailbox on her shelf to encourage letter-writing and promises to reply to every letter she receives.

💡 Transforming a City Through Books

- The library has reshaped Rebecca’s view of Singapore, making it feel more generous, warm, open, and kind.

- It serves as a reminder that communities can come together to create what’s missing in their lives, whether it’s a library or a sense of connection.

- The project exemplifies how small, shared efforts can foster hope and regeneration in a fragmented world.