Several years ago, I was involved with an organization promoting literacy. As part of its efforts, the group commissioned several Little Free Libraries to be built and placed around town. The thought was that if the organization provided the libraries and initially stocked them with books they would be self-sustaining projects — subsequent books would be replenished by others who borrowed from them.
What anyone failed to consider was the maintenance of the libraries themselves. After several years in the harsh Midwest elements, the roof is peeling, the walls could use paint, and the whole thing is in an embarrassing state of disrepair. Yet, the organization’s name still remains prominently on the library plaque — even though I doubt any of the current members have a clue that they inherited this legacy.
Too often, in our zeal to implement new projects, we forget about the sustaining stage. From Eagle Scouts to nonprofits to professionals, all the focus is on the innovation and not the ongoing effort that will be required for the project to retain its value. Before you greenlight the next new thing, think about how you will either maintain it or phase it out. Allowing something to fade away from neglect is a poor option.
