Local resident opens Christian roadside stand and Little Free Library in Bedford

BEDFORD — Samantha Lee has opened a new Christian roadside stand and Little Free Library, offering the community a place to exchange books and share inspiration. The stand, called Sam’s Shelf, is located at 16 Indian Trails Ridge in Bedford and is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Lee said her lifelong love of reading and passion for sharing books with others inspired the project. “As long as I can remember, I have been surrounded by books. I grew up in a very literacy-rich home and now spend my days surrounding our family, friends, and neighbors with books,” she said.

After discovering the Little Free Library organization, Lee wanted to bring the concept to her neighborhood—but with a unique twist. “My next challenge was finding a way to fit hundreds of saved books into a little library box,” she said. “After some more researching and thinking, I decided to start designing and creating a not-so-little free library.”

Visitors to Sam’s Shelf are encouraged to bring used books to swap for others. The library features titles for all ages, from children’s stories to inspirational reads for adults. Lee hopes the stand will become a gathering spot where the community can connect through a shared love of books and faith.

For residents looking to give or receive a good read, Sam’s Shelf is open daily and welcomes everyone to take part in the exchange.