New Free Little Library Recognizes Serendipity Books and Its Owners

Friday Harbor’s latest Free Little Library is at the Post Office, dedicated to Serendipity Books and its owners Carol Jackson and Dilys Goodman.

Widely recognized as an island treasure, Serendipity became a reality when two former librarians and neighbors, Carol and Betty Stewart, launched their business next to the ferry landing. Dilys joined the business several years later when Betty was unable to continue.

The bookstore was greatly enhanced by Phill Jackson’s computerized inventory, which was innovative in 1995. Carol and Dilys are also having milestone birthdays this year so it is a triple celebration.

The talents of all these individuals have made the business the success it is and Serendipity so endearing. Appreciated by islanders and visitors alike, online reviews of Serendipity are glowing. Located in a charming Victorian house, Serendipity Books has been the location for photo shoots as well as having attracted celebrity visitors like Tom Hanks who was looking for a copy of Moby Dick for his son.

The grand opening of the library was on May 19, 2020 but without the normal celebration that comes with the launch of a new Free Little Library. Like many things in time of Covid-19, it was respectful of distancing. Kudos to Dick Barnes, a member of the Serendipity family as well as a steward of his own Free Little Library, for the installation of the library.

Next time you are at the Post Office, check out the blue Free Little Library next to the community bulletin board and remember the motto of all Free Little Libraries, “Take a book, give a book.” Congratulations Serendipity Books, Carol and Dilys.

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