Day 6

Being somewhat fascinated by these Little Free Libraries, I decided to set one up for myself; at least a temporary one for Valentine's Day. In 2011 Anthony Lawlor and I published a book of love poems. We each wrote six poems and I put them all to calligraphy. I wanted to give some away as Valentine's Day gifts. So I set out a TV tray with four books, autographed, with a sign that said, "Take a Free Book for Valentine's Day."

My neighbor was passing by when I was setting up the table. I guess he heard me through his headset, as he did respond. He was happy to take the book and offered me free lemons from his tree in exchange.

I left the table and later noticed one was missing—another person received my gift.

Then I went about my business, and took a shower. Still in my towel, I saw a woman in her bike helmet with her bicycle looking at my books. I spied on her through my curtains. She read it for a while, and put the two remaining books in her basket. Then she started taking the table! I had to risk being seen in my towel, but shouted out from the door, "Just the books are free, not the table!" She innocently looked at the sign. "Oh, free BOOKS!" Then she placed them back on the table. Looks like she was just taking the books so she could have the table.

by Robert Indiana, SFMOMA

Well, that ended my great day of give aways. I threw on some clothes and packed up my table. I did leave the remaining two books on the ground with the sign, and one more was taken.

I would like to offer you the same gift. For the next week, Two As One: Poems from a New Love, is free. Use coupon code: Free BOOK. No table. You just pay the postage.

Happy Valentine's Day!!!