Neat idea from NY architect John Locke, who designed this slot-together plywood shelf unit to hang over the standard public telephone kiosk without fasteners or other alterations to the existing public property. The phone, if present, can still be used normally.

So far, John has tested two prototypes, and in both cases passers-by were confused about what to do with the shelves and the books they contained. John doesn’t want to add written instructions, but if the goal is really to provide a public convenience, I personally think a clear “Take something, leave something” sign is exactly what’s missing. [Thanks, Haley!]