Titchfield’s Book Exchange

Ever wondered what you can get for £1 these days? A bar of chocolate? A scratch card? How about… a whole telephone box?!

That’s right—after raising just £1 (yes, really!), we transformed Titchfield’s disused red telephone box at the bottom of Southampton Hill into a vibrant community book exchange and planter. What started as a forgotten relic of the past is now a much-loved spot for book lovers of all ages.

A New Chapter for an Old Phone Box

With the rise of mobile phones, our once-busy telephone box had fallen into disrepair. So, we asked the village: “What should we do with it?” The answer was loud and clear—a book exchange! The idea was simple: take a book, leave a book, and keep the joy of reading alive in our community.

Bringing the Vision to Life

The restoration efforts were spearheaded by High Street resident David Ibbetson, who meticulously stripped down and repainted the phone box. The refurbishment included installing new signage and fitting out the interior with shelving, a task undertaken by the local Men's Shed group. The project incurred costs of approximately £800, covering materials and equipment. With a grant from Hampshire County Council, we kitted out the box, added a splash of greenery, and watched as the community breathed new life into it.

A Community Treasure

Upon completion, the phone box was stocked with a diverse selection of books donated by residents, transforming it into a free, 24/7 library. Community members are encouraged to take a book and leave one in return, promoting a continuous exchange of literature. This initiative not only provides access to books but also strengthens community bonds through shared reading experiences.

Preserving Heritage

The Titchfield phone box book exchange exemplifies how communities can creatively repurpose historical structures to serve contemporary needs. By converting the disused telephone box into a book exchange, TVT has preserved a piece of local heritage while promoting literacy and community engagement.

This project stands as a testament to Titchfield's commitment to fostering a sense of community and preserving its historical landmarks for future generations.

We love seeing the community embrace it, and it’s heartwarming to know that something so simple has brought so much joy. So next time you’re passing by, why not pop in and pick up a book?

Happy reading, Titchfield!