A Little Magic in the Library: How Fairy Doors Spark Wonder and Creativity

Libraries are magical places to begin with—where else can you step into countless worlds just by turning a page? But what if you could add a little more magic? A fairy door is a simple, whimsical touch that can delight kids (and adults!) while sparking creativity, joy, and a sense of wonder. Let me tell you about my journey with fairy doors and why every library should have one.

What’s a Fairy Door?

The idea of fairy doors first took off in Ann Arbor, Michigan, thanks to illustrator and “certified fairyologist” Jonathan B. Wright. These tiny, intricate doors started appearing around the city in the 1990s—at coffee shops, bookstores, and even schools. Each door hints at the presence of fairies living just out of sight. There are even fairy journals, notes, and little clues about their world! You can read all about it on the Urban Fairies website.

This magical concept has captured imaginations far and wide, and I’ve been lucky enough to sprinkle some fairy dust into my library spaces.

My Fairy Door Adventure

Let me rewind the clock to more than a decade ago. My ten-year-old daughter and I were looking for a fun project together, and we decided to create our first fairy door. We crafted it carefully, imagining what kind of fairies might live behind it and what their tiny world might look like. That project was just the beginning of a much bigger journey!

My Wonderful Daughter and the Fairy Door We Created Together

A Fairy House in a Book

I wanted to share the magic with my students when I started working in my first library. So, I made a hollowed-out book into a little fairy house and placed it among the bookshelves behind the checkout desk. The kids were enchanted. They’d gather around to peek inside and imagine stories about who lived there.

A Door in My Current Library

Fast-forward to my current library for fifth and sixth graders, and I knew I had to bring fairies into the mix. I added a tiny fairy door on the wall this time, tucked away just enough to feel like a special discovery. The students were over the moon! Some whispered excitedly about what the fairies might be doing at night; my colleague, a massive fan of miniatures, even placed tiny ‘currently reading’ signs outside the door.  She is planning on a full-scale decorating blitz for the winter months!  She has continued to foster joy in our students by printing off tiny ‘optical illusion backgrounds’ that make it appear that when students open the door, the fairy ‘house’ goes on forever. Students love peeking inside to see what the ‘newest’ background is.  A special shout-out to my colleague, The Book Wrangler, for reigniting my love for these miniature portals.  He posted about it on his Instagram page and even shared the tiny “Currently Reading” templates and links for other librarians to use.  He continues to inspire me!

I Really Like the Details on This Door!

Our Fairy Door, Complete With a Currently Reading Poster

A Tiny Book The Fairy Left In Her Reading Chair

Seeing the Magic in Ann Arbor

I visited Ann Arbor many years ago to see the original fairy doors in person. If you’re ever in the area, it’s worth the trip! These doors are tucked into many places—coffee shops, bookstores, and even the Michigan Theater. Each has its personality, and together, they create a magical treasure hunt. It reminded me how something as small as a tiny door can spark joy and wonder in people of all ages.

Why Your Library Needs a Fairy Door

Adding a fairy door to your library is more than just decoration—it’s about opening a door to imagination. Here’s why I think every library could use one:

• It inspires creativity: Kids can dream stories, draw pictures, or even write letters to the fairies.

• It builds connection: Students love discussing what they think the fairies are up to, creating a shared sense of fun.

• It spreads joy: Let’s be honest—there’s something magical about seeing a tiny door and imagining what’s behind it.

Tips for Getting Started

Creating your fairy door doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. Here are a few ideas to help you sprinkle some magic into your library:

1. Craft or buy a door: You can find small doors at craft stores or online, or make one yourself from cardboard or wood.

2. Add details: A tiny mailbox, a doormat, or seasonal decorations can make it extra special.

3. Get students involved: Have them design decorations or write “fairy stories” to go with the door.

4. Keep it interactive: Leave little clues now and then—footprints, tiny notes, or even a fairy-sized “book.”

The Kids Will Love It (and So Will You)

The best part of adding a fairy door is seeing how it lights up your students’ faces. There’s something universally magical about imagining a tiny world just out of reach. It’s a simple, playful way to make your library a place of joy and curiosity.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re thinking about adding a fairy door to your library, check out these resources for inspiration:

• Urban Fairies of Ann Arbor

•  DIY Fairy Door Tutorials

•  Whimsical Library Ideas

Why not add a little magic to your library today? You never know what kind of wonder it might inspire!