Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport introduced the PHX Free Little Library on March 2, coinciding with Read Across America Day. The new feature is located in Terminal 3 and was launched through a partnership between Phoenix Sky Harbor, Phoenix Public Library, and Friends of the Phoenix Public Library.
The launch event included airport and library leaders reading to children from Silvestre Herrera Elementary School. The PHX Free Little Library allows travelers to take or donate books for all age groups. Books are supplied by the Phoenix Public Library and its Friends organization, with traveler donations helping maintain the collection.
Aviation Director Chad Makovsky said, “The PHX Free Little Library adds another engaging, family-friendly amenity to our vibrant Culture Corner. It’s such a convenient way for passengers to grab or drop off a book before their next flight. And today we were thrilled to welcome local Phoenix students as our first readers.”
Students participated in activities related to the stories as part of March’s Culture Corner session at the airport.
Phoenix Public Library Services Director Erin MacFarlane stated, “Offering the library at the airport is more than just a collection of books; it’s another way for those traveling through Phoenix Sky Harbor to discover stories and embark on literary adventures. Phoenix Public Library is delighted to contribute to this symbol of generosity and community connection.”
Alejandra Bucon, President of Friends of the Phoenix Public Library, added, “It fills our hearts with joy to help bring this Free Little Library to life at Phoenix Sky Harbor in partnership with Phoenix Public Library. Books have a special way of inspiring and connecting people, especially when they are far from home. The Friends of the Phoenix Public Library is honored to provide the books that make this space possible and hopes each one brings a moment of happiness to every traveler who discovers it.”
The PHX Free Little Library is situated in Culture Corner on Level 4 post-security between Gates F3 and F4 in Terminal 3. The Culture Corner was established in 2025 as an area highlighting Arizona’s cultural diversity with regular events featuring local nonprofit organizations.
Travelers using Terminal 3 may also find other amenities nearby due to ongoing developments at Sky Harbor. For example, Breeze Airways began offering flights from Terminal 3 twice weekly starting November 2022 with destinations including Charleston, South Carolina, and Provo, Utah (https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/aviation/2437).
In recent years, leadership changes have occurred within the City of Phoenix Aviation Department. Roxann Favors was named Assistant Director/Chief Revenue Officer in August 2022 after nearly two decades with the city (https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/aviation/2447). On that same date, Jay DeWitt was appointed Assistant Director/Chief Development Officer overseeing several divisions within aviation operations (https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/aviation/2448).
Sky Harbor has an annual economic impact exceeding $44 billion and serves over 130,000 passengers daily without relying on tax dollars for support.
For more information about obtaining a library card or learning about services offered by Phoenix Public Library, visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org.
