Forget Books: A Massachusetts Man Created a ‘Little Free Library’ for Hot Wheels

Take a stroll through just about any SouthCoast neighborhood and chances are you'll stumble upon a Little Free Library. These creative containers hold books for anyone and everyone with a take one, leave one policy.

Over the years, the Little Free Libraries have evolved, some containing trinkets and little tchotchkes or even crafts. Now, there's a brand new free library in Malden that's tapping into nostalgia, focusing on one of the most-popular toys in the world: Hot Wheels.

"If you think about all the toys we have seen come and go through the years, Beanie Babies, Pokémon, etc., this is one toy that is probably in 98 percent of households since way back in the '70s. So almost everyone can participate," creator John Melanson said.

Inside the 28-Car Hot Wheels Library in Malden

Like many people, he is a big fan of the popular die-cast toy. "My personal collection is roughly over 2,000 pieces and growing," Melanson said. The library holds up to 28 cars and trucks. There are custom-made slots for 24 vehicles and space for four more on the ledge.

The Hot Wheels library can be found in Melanson's hometown of Malden, MA. It's located near a local Dunkin' at the corner of Lynn Street and Beach Street.

John Melanson via Facebook

Bringing Generations Together Through Nostalgia

Since its installation, the mini Hot Wheels library has seen many visitors. "There have been so many people posting pics with what they swapped and many more excited to come see it," Melanson said.

"For me, this has been an amazing experience seeing my community come together and create such incredible memories," he said. "From generations past being excited and talking about the ones they had as a kid, to the new generation getting excited to visit and bring home new cars."