PALMER, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska couple have opened a library of sorts outside of their home that is filled with free books for the community.

Josh and Courtney Salmon, of Palmer, said they were inspired by the Free Little Library organization, a group that promotes literacy around the world by offering books at no charge.

Users are encouraged to take a book from the Salmons’ collection, available in a box outside their home, and either bring it back or keep it, the Grand Island Independent reported on Jan. 16. People can also donate books.

Courtney Salmon said she was also inspired to offer the library because of her work as a teacher. So she registered Palmer as a library destination at the organization’s website. There are more than 20,000 registered libraries, and they’re located in other Nebraska communities including Ashton, Loup City and Hastings.

“It just feels good to be able to share books with people,” she said. “And to promote literacy, it’s an easy way.”

Courtney Salmon said the little library will be beneficial to Palmer and its population of less than 500, since the public library in town has limited hours. Courtney Salmon said she regularly picks up new books at garage sales and Goodwill. “I just think that literacy is so important,” she said. “For kids especially, being able to have books and have books that they can own and read – and even for adults – I think reading should be a lifelong thing.”