Hsi Fang Temple Establishes Little Free Library and Minion Installations to Promote Compassion and Buddhist Teachings

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple
October 30, 2024

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple, situated on a busy street, has launched a “Little Free Library” and installed four adorable Minion figures since mid-October. This initiative aims to foster community ties and deepen the understanding of Buddhist principles and compassion within the neighborhood. The new features have attracted significant attention from local residents and sparked lively discussions.

In line with the purpose of the concept of “Water and Cloud Mobile Library” by the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Ven. Master Hsing Yun, the temple provides easy access to reading materials for the community, encouraging personal enrichment and breaking down barriers associated with traditional library settings. Located on a bustling sidewalk in front of the Buddha’s Light Bookstore, the library offers Buddhist texts, CDs, children’s stories, and BLTV cartoon DVDs, all intended to enhance life quality and transform lives.

Paul, a neighbor and one of the first to borrow from the library, expressed his enthusiasm after checking out a CD with calm instrumental music. “The convenience of the Little Free Library, located on a busy street, makes it easy for many residents to pick up books and plan a seed in. I plan to find some time to quietly enjoy the music and unwind,” he said.

Volunteer Cheng played a significant role in establishing the library, attending to every detail from design and procurement to assembly and painting, creating a temple-shaped cabinet. “As long as it benefits the community, I don’t mind putting in some effort,” Cheng remarked. Neighbors borrowing books have praised these details, adding more significant meaning to the library's establishment.

Standing alongside the library, the four Minion figures have become a popular topic in the community. Named Bodhi, Compassion, Kindness, and Joy, these Minions are not just cute decorations; they symbolize various superpowers such as awakening, compassion, loving-kindness, and joy. Their presence has made Buddhism more approachable for local residents as well as the children.

A gardening teacher from nearby Birney Elementary School noted that students have engaged in lively discussions about the Minions’ superpowers. “The kids are really interested in these Minions; they imagine having these superpowers and discuss how to practice compassion and care in their lives,” she shared.

Superintendent Ven. Miaozang emphasized the importance of shared values like compassion and joy, stating, “We hope that through this initiative, everyone can learn Buddhism in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. The four Minions represent the four great Bodhisattvas, promoting harmony and mutual assistance within the community.”

Hsi Fang Temple's new features not only sow the seeds of Buddhist teachings and compassion in the community but also raise awareness about the significance of love and care among residents.