Crescent Shelf is a grassroots network of community-hosted Islamic libraries. Similar to the Little Free Library movement, we empower Muslim families, masjids, and organizations to place small outdoor libraries in their communities stocked with free Qurans, Islamic literature, and carefully selected books on contemporary topics from the Muslim perspective.

Any Muslim individual, family, masjid, Islamic school, halal business, or community center can host a shelf. You just need a willing heart and a suitable outdoor space.

Absolutely not. Our shelves are open to neighbors of all backgrounds and faiths. In fact, one of our core goals is to make Islamic knowledge accessible to curious non-Muslim neighbors. Anyone is welcome to take a free Quran, borrow a book, or simply stop and browse.

That's entirely up to you as the host. Tthere's no single required model. Some hosts run their shelf like a little free library where everything is free to take and keep. Others prefer a borrow-and-return system for certain books so more neighbors can benefit from the same copy. Many do a mix of both.

Simple labeling makes the system clear to visitors: colored stickers, a small laminated sign, or a handwritten note on the door all work well.

Starting costs vary widely:

• DIY build: $40–$80 for materials
• Pre-made box: $80–$200+ depending on size and quality
• Initial book stock: Often free via donations from your masjid community, or $20–$100 for purchased titles

With a litle resourcefulness, you can set up fully functional shelves for under $50 by using donated lumber, community book donations, and free Quran programs. See our How-To page for full details.

If it's your property, you generally don't need permission. However, if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA (Homeowners Association), check their guidelines to make sure a small front-yard library is allowed. If it isn't explicitly covered, you can submit an Architectural Review Request (sometimes called an ACC request) to get formal approval before installing.

Currently, Crescent Shelf is a volunteer-run grassroots initiative. We don't provide direct financial grants at the moment.

This is a valid and important concern. Here are practical steps to balance visibility with security:

• Start with a low-profile design. Your shelf doesn't need a giant sign.
• Get to know your neighbors before launching. Community familiarity is your best protection.
• Keep your personal name off the shelf. List it under "Crescent Shelf" rather than your family name.

Most hosts check their shelf 1–2 times per week. This takes about 5 minutes — restocking, removing books that got wet or damaged, and tidying up. In high-traffic areas (near a masjid or school), you may need to check more frequently. In quieter neighborhoods, once a week is usually sufficient.

Remove and recycle them. A community shelf represents our faith — books with torn covers, water damage, or missing pages reflect poorly on the effort. Gently used is the standard. If you find damaged donations, thank the person for their intention and simply don't put the books out.

Never. Our map shows only your approximate city or neighborhood area, not your street address or home location. You remain in full control of your privacy.

Your registration information is used solely to: (1) send you your welcome packet, (2) add your approximate location to the map, and (3) connect you with nearby hosts if you consent. We do not sell, share, or trade your data with any third party. You can request deletion of your data at any time by emailing us.