Lilliput Libraries

April 2018

This was a fun project to work on and my first ReactJS based web application. Built for a Dunedin based Not for Profit Organisation (NPO), called Lilliput Libraries. This NPO coordinates and supports the placing of free little libraries on peoples fencelines. Starting with a handful of libraries in Dunedin there are now libraries all over Otago.

The site uses Google Maps API V3 to display the map and markers for each library. Ge-location is available when used on mobile devices to show the user the libraries closest to their location.

Firebase is used both to store information on the libraries, but also to provide authentication. This is used to authenticate access to an admin portal, which the founder can use to add and edit libraries.

  • ReactJS
  • Firebase
  • Google Maps
  • Geolocation

I created the Lilliput Libraries project three years ago and there’s always been a ‘if only I could map them’ on my ‘would like, but improbable’ wish list. Earlier this year Rich contacted me to say he’d discovered the libraries while staying in Dunedin and wondered if he could be of help by providing a LL map. My response was an unreserved YES. So a remote connection was made with Rich listening to my wishes and willingly making modifications as I changed my mind, frequently! He built me a LL map site with capabilities beyond my hopes – it covers NZ when I only expected Dunedin. I’m thrilled with the result. Our LL guardians and users are ecstatic our project has been mapped. Thanks Rich, it’s been a pleasure having your wonderful skills and talents in a very generous voluntary capacity.


Ruth Arnison