Massanutten Regional Library is proud to announce the unveiling of their new Little Free Pantry, to be located outside of the Central Library in Harrisonburg. This pantry will provide free access to nonperishable food and toiletries to the community. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on November 16 from 10-11AM.
“Our Little Free Pantry represents so much more than providing food and essential items to those in need,” Adult Services Librarian Allison Brueckner, initial coordinator of the project, said. “It is an opportunity to strengthen community connections, raise awareness about food insecurity, and inspire others to give. At its heart, this initiative is about neighbors helping neighbors and creating a stronger, more compassionate community.”
MRL believes libraries are more than repositories of books—they are trusted community anchors that provide equitable access to information, resources, and support. Our Little Free Pantry (LFP) aligns directly with the library’s mission to serve as a welcoming, responsive space where all community members feel valued and supported. In Harrisonburg, the estimated food insecurity rate is 15.9%, or roughly one in seven people, exceeding the statewide average of 12.1%. By establishing the LFP, MRL hopes to create not only a practical resource to help this issue, but also a visible symbol of compassion, dignity, and collective care—demonstrating that small acts of generosity can have a meaningful impact on the daily lives of community members.
“We’ve put a lot of thought and care into making sure this is a resource that serves our community to the best of its ability,” Adult Services Librarian and co-coordinator Grace Villanueva said. “We are so grateful for all of our partners and contributors for helping make this come to life.”
MRL is grateful for the generous support of the Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC), whose Operation Round Up Grant supported this initiative, as well as Venture Builders for their gracious support with the build of both the pantry and the donation box.
“This is yet another facet of MRL being welcoming to everyone within our community,” Library Director Zach Elder said. “This pantry will be available all hours, designed to provide free, nonperishable food with respect and without judgment.”
The Little Free Library will be located outside the front of the library, allowing it to be publicly accessible to all. MRL is also taking donations of items or funds from the community to support and sustain the Little Free Library. More information on what items will be provided and how to donate them can be found on their website: mrlib.org/lfp.
