#borrowdontbuy — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #borrowdontbuy, aggregated by home.social.
-
Brunswick library lets patrons borrow more than 1,500 gadgets and tools
The #LibraryOfThings in #BrunswickME offers tools, toys, appliances, and more for residents to use for their occasional needs.
Author: Christian Harsa
Published: 7:23 PM EST November 8, 2025BRUNSWICK, Maine — "There are plenty of things people buy, use once, then never find a need for again. It may be a pasta maker gathering dust or a steel drum long forgotten, but those tools and others can be found at the #CurtisMemorialLibrary in Brunswick all for free.
"The idea comes in part from the library's dedication to #sustainability.
"Kelly McElligott, a librarian and manager at the library, explained more about the Library of Things while indexing a shelf full of tools, safety equipment, and other #DIY gadgets.
" 'You may just need to use it only one time, and you can borrow it from us without having to purchase it,' she said.
"McElligott has borrowed from the Library of Things occasionally, too. In fact, she said she once checked out the popover tins for some baking and likes to peruse the conversation starter cards.
"The collection of goods also came in handy when her basement flooded.
" 'I got one of the industrial fans and let it blow for days and hope that fixed it,' she said with a chuckle.
"Built up over a few years, the Library of Things offers the residents of Brunswick and #HarpswellME access to items they may not want to buy but still need. Plus, for a fee, residents from other communities can check out things, too.
"From those who need a KitchenAid mixer or are hoping to become a #DIYFixer, the Curtis Memorial Library has more than 1,500 items, plus some informational classes too.
" 'We did a #DIYPlumbing class, and then we bought the equipment you would need that were talked about in the program so you then you could go home and say, 'I can fix that myself,' McElligott said."
Archived version:
https://archive.ph/p7lL5#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesOfThings #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
Brunswick library lets patrons borrow more than 1,500 gadgets and tools
The #LibraryOfThings in #BrunswickME offers tools, toys, appliances, and more for residents to use for their occasional needs.
Author: Christian Harsa
Published: 7:23 PM EST November 8, 2025BRUNSWICK, Maine — "There are plenty of things people buy, use once, then never find a need for again. It may be a pasta maker gathering dust or a steel drum long forgotten, but those tools and others can be found at the #CurtisMemorialLibrary in Brunswick all for free.
"The idea comes in part from the library's dedication to #sustainability.
"Kelly McElligott, a librarian and manager at the library, explained more about the Library of Things while indexing a shelf full of tools, safety equipment, and other #DIY gadgets.
" 'You may just need to use it only one time, and you can borrow it from us without having to purchase it,' she said.
"McElligott has borrowed from the Library of Things occasionally, too. In fact, she said she once checked out the popover tins for some baking and likes to peruse the conversation starter cards.
"The collection of goods also came in handy when her basement flooded.
" 'I got one of the industrial fans and let it blow for days and hope that fixed it,' she said with a chuckle.
"Built up over a few years, the Library of Things offers the residents of Brunswick and #HarpswellME access to items they may not want to buy but still need. Plus, for a fee, residents from other communities can check out things, too.
"From those who need a KitchenAid mixer or are hoping to become a #DIYFixer, the Curtis Memorial Library has more than 1,500 items, plus some informational classes too.
" 'We did a #DIYPlumbing class, and then we bought the equipment you would need that were talked about in the program so you then you could go home and say, 'I can fix that myself,' McElligott said."
Archived version:
https://archive.ph/p7lL5#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesOfThings #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
Brunswick library lets patrons borrow more than 1,500 gadgets and tools
The #LibraryOfThings in #BrunswickME offers tools, toys, appliances, and more for residents to use for their occasional needs.
Author: Christian Harsa
Published: 7:23 PM EST November 8, 2025BRUNSWICK, Maine — "There are plenty of things people buy, use once, then never find a need for again. It may be a pasta maker gathering dust or a steel drum long forgotten, but those tools and others can be found at the #CurtisMemorialLibrary in Brunswick all for free.
"The idea comes in part from the library's dedication to #sustainability.
"Kelly McElligott, a librarian and manager at the library, explained more about the Library of Things while indexing a shelf full of tools, safety equipment, and other #DIY gadgets.
" 'You may just need to use it only one time, and you can borrow it from us without having to purchase it,' she said.
"McElligott has borrowed from the Library of Things occasionally, too. In fact, she said she once checked out the popover tins for some baking and likes to peruse the conversation starter cards.
"The collection of goods also came in handy when her basement flooded.
" 'I got one of the industrial fans and let it blow for days and hope that fixed it,' she said with a chuckle.
"Built up over a few years, the Library of Things offers the residents of Brunswick and #HarpswellME access to items they may not want to buy but still need. Plus, for a fee, residents from other communities can check out things, too.
"From those who need a KitchenAid mixer or are hoping to become a #DIYFixer, the Curtis Memorial Library has more than 1,500 items, plus some informational classes too.
" 'We did a #DIYPlumbing class, and then we bought the equipment you would need that were talked about in the program so you then you could go home and say, 'I can fix that myself,' McElligott said."
Archived version:
https://archive.ph/p7lL5#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesOfThings #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
Brunswick library lets patrons borrow more than 1,500 gadgets and tools
The #LibraryOfThings in #BrunswickME offers tools, toys, appliances, and more for residents to use for their occasional needs.
Author: Christian Harsa
Published: 7:23 PM EST November 8, 2025BRUNSWICK, Maine — "There are plenty of things people buy, use once, then never find a need for again. It may be a pasta maker gathering dust or a steel drum long forgotten, but those tools and others can be found at the #CurtisMemorialLibrary in Brunswick all for free.
"The idea comes in part from the library's dedication to #sustainability.
"Kelly McElligott, a librarian and manager at the library, explained more about the Library of Things while indexing a shelf full of tools, safety equipment, and other #DIY gadgets.
" 'You may just need to use it only one time, and you can borrow it from us without having to purchase it,' she said.
"McElligott has borrowed from the Library of Things occasionally, too. In fact, she said she once checked out the popover tins for some baking and likes to peruse the conversation starter cards.
"The collection of goods also came in handy when her basement flooded.
" 'I got one of the industrial fans and let it blow for days and hope that fixed it,' she said with a chuckle.
"Built up over a few years, the Library of Things offers the residents of Brunswick and #HarpswellME access to items they may not want to buy but still need. Plus, for a fee, residents from other communities can check out things, too.
"From those who need a KitchenAid mixer or are hoping to become a #DIYFixer, the Curtis Memorial Library has more than 1,500 items, plus some informational classes too.
" 'We did a #DIYPlumbing class, and then we bought the equipment you would need that were talked about in the program so you then you could go home and say, 'I can fix that myself,' McElligott said."
Archived version:
https://archive.ph/p7lL5#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesOfThings #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
Brunswick library lets patrons borrow more than 1,500 gadgets and tools
The #LibraryOfThings in #BrunswickME offers tools, toys, appliances, and more for residents to use for their occasional needs.
Author: Christian Harsa
Published: 7:23 PM EST November 8, 2025BRUNSWICK, Maine — "There are plenty of things people buy, use once, then never find a need for again. It may be a pasta maker gathering dust or a steel drum long forgotten, but those tools and others can be found at the #CurtisMemorialLibrary in Brunswick all for free.
"The idea comes in part from the library's dedication to #sustainability.
"Kelly McElligott, a librarian and manager at the library, explained more about the Library of Things while indexing a shelf full of tools, safety equipment, and other #DIY gadgets.
" 'You may just need to use it only one time, and you can borrow it from us without having to purchase it,' she said.
"McElligott has borrowed from the Library of Things occasionally, too. In fact, she said she once checked out the popover tins for some baking and likes to peruse the conversation starter cards.
"The collection of goods also came in handy when her basement flooded.
" 'I got one of the industrial fans and let it blow for days and hope that fixed it,' she said with a chuckle.
"Built up over a few years, the Library of Things offers the residents of Brunswick and #HarpswellME access to items they may not want to buy but still need. Plus, for a fee, residents from other communities can check out things, too.
"From those who need a KitchenAid mixer or are hoping to become a #DIYFixer, the Curtis Memorial Library has more than 1,500 items, plus some informational classes too.
" 'We did a #DIYPlumbing class, and then we bought the equipment you would need that were talked about in the program so you then you could go home and say, 'I can fix that myself,' McElligott said."
Archived version:
https://archive.ph/p7lL5#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesOfThings #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
How #LibrariesOfThings build #resilience, fight #ClimateChange, and bring communities together
by Tom Llewellyn
April 17, 2019Excerpt: "With climate-fueled disasters on the rise around the world, what role can tool libraries play in aiding community-led disaster response efforts?
" #ToolLibraries can play a huge role in #ClimateResilience and helping communities bounce forward after a disaster, but to be most effective they need to be in place before disasters like super-storms, floods, wildfires, or earthquakes.
"The tools, skills, and community that support a tool library can all be essential ingredients for rapid response and rebuilding. As we’ve seen after recent disasters, it can take weeks — or even months — for effective outside assistance to arrive, so the better-equipped communities are to help themselves, the better they will do after a disaster. Even if a tool library itself is damaged in a disaster, a redundant and reliable platform like #myTurn can help locate the tools that were checked out at the time of the disaster or items from other nearby tool libraries, so they can be put back into service quickly.
"Even before a disaster happens, tool libraries can play a number of roles in disaster preparation. Some of the most popular tools at the #PhinneyToolLibrary like concrete drills, palm nailers, air compressors, reciprocating saws are often borrowed to be used for earthquake retrofits, and the Oakland Tool Library even has earthquake retrofit kits. The social cohesion that tool libraries fosters also helps build community resilience.
"One final important, and often overlooked, benefit of tool libraries, #LibrariesOfThings, and other product sharing services is the large role they can play in reducing GHGs and climate risk in the first place. According to recent research by groups in Europe and the C40 Cities, consumer product consumption is the sector of the economy that has one of the, if not the, biggest environmental impact when taking into account resource extraction, manufacturing, and global supply chains, transportation, storage, use, and eventual disposal of products.
"Beyond reducing the 'embodied' energy in products through #reuse, some organizations are using tool libraries to further advance energy efficiency. For example, the Smart Buildings Center, SDG&E, and CUNY Building Performance Lab all run energy efficiency tool libraries that help homeowners, professionals, and construction companies retrofit existing buildings to reduce their energy use. Using shared tools to reduce energy consumption is a win-win for people, economics, and the planet."
#SolarPunkSunday #DisasterPreparedness #BorrowDontBuy #Resiliency #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
How #LibrariesOfThings build #resilience, fight #ClimateChange, and bring communities together
by Tom Llewellyn
April 17, 2019Excerpt: "With climate-fueled disasters on the rise around the world, what role can tool libraries play in aiding community-led disaster response efforts?
" #ToolLibraries can play a huge role in #ClimateResilience and helping communities bounce forward after a disaster, but to be most effective they need to be in place before disasters like super-storms, floods, wildfires, or earthquakes.
"The tools, skills, and community that support a tool library can all be essential ingredients for rapid response and rebuilding. As we’ve seen after recent disasters, it can take weeks — or even months — for effective outside assistance to arrive, so the better-equipped communities are to help themselves, the better they will do after a disaster. Even if a tool library itself is damaged in a disaster, a redundant and reliable platform like #myTurn can help locate the tools that were checked out at the time of the disaster or items from other nearby tool libraries, so they can be put back into service quickly.
"Even before a disaster happens, tool libraries can play a number of roles in disaster preparation. Some of the most popular tools at the #PhinneyToolLibrary like concrete drills, palm nailers, air compressors, reciprocating saws are often borrowed to be used for earthquake retrofits, and the Oakland Tool Library even has earthquake retrofit kits. The social cohesion that tool libraries fosters also helps build community resilience.
"One final important, and often overlooked, benefit of tool libraries, #LibrariesOfThings, and other product sharing services is the large role they can play in reducing GHGs and climate risk in the first place. According to recent research by groups in Europe and the C40 Cities, consumer product consumption is the sector of the economy that has one of the, if not the, biggest environmental impact when taking into account resource extraction, manufacturing, and global supply chains, transportation, storage, use, and eventual disposal of products.
"Beyond reducing the 'embodied' energy in products through #reuse, some organizations are using tool libraries to further advance energy efficiency. For example, the Smart Buildings Center, SDG&E, and CUNY Building Performance Lab all run energy efficiency tool libraries that help homeowners, professionals, and construction companies retrofit existing buildings to reduce their energy use. Using shared tools to reduce energy consumption is a win-win for people, economics, and the planet."
#SolarPunkSunday #DisasterPreparedness #BorrowDontBuy #Resiliency #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
How #LibrariesOfThings build #resilience, fight #ClimateChange, and bring communities together
by Tom Llewellyn
April 17, 2019Excerpt: "With climate-fueled disasters on the rise around the world, what role can tool libraries play in aiding community-led disaster response efforts?
" #ToolLibraries can play a huge role in #ClimateResilience and helping communities bounce forward after a disaster, but to be most effective they need to be in place before disasters like super-storms, floods, wildfires, or earthquakes.
"The tools, skills, and community that support a tool library can all be essential ingredients for rapid response and rebuilding. As we’ve seen after recent disasters, it can take weeks — or even months — for effective outside assistance to arrive, so the better-equipped communities are to help themselves, the better they will do after a disaster. Even if a tool library itself is damaged in a disaster, a redundant and reliable platform like #myTurn can help locate the tools that were checked out at the time of the disaster or items from other nearby tool libraries, so they can be put back into service quickly.
"Even before a disaster happens, tool libraries can play a number of roles in disaster preparation. Some of the most popular tools at the #PhinneyToolLibrary like concrete drills, palm nailers, air compressors, reciprocating saws are often borrowed to be used for earthquake retrofits, and the Oakland Tool Library even has earthquake retrofit kits. The social cohesion that tool libraries fosters also helps build community resilience.
"One final important, and often overlooked, benefit of tool libraries, #LibrariesOfThings, and other product sharing services is the large role they can play in reducing GHGs and climate risk in the first place. According to recent research by groups in Europe and the C40 Cities, consumer product consumption is the sector of the economy that has one of the, if not the, biggest environmental impact when taking into account resource extraction, manufacturing, and global supply chains, transportation, storage, use, and eventual disposal of products.
"Beyond reducing the 'embodied' energy in products through #reuse, some organizations are using tool libraries to further advance energy efficiency. For example, the Smart Buildings Center, SDG&E, and CUNY Building Performance Lab all run energy efficiency tool libraries that help homeowners, professionals, and construction companies retrofit existing buildings to reduce their energy use. Using shared tools to reduce energy consumption is a win-win for people, economics, and the planet."
#SolarPunkSunday #DisasterPreparedness #BorrowDontBuy #Resiliency #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
How #LibrariesOfThings build #resilience, fight #ClimateChange, and bring communities together
by Tom Llewellyn
April 17, 2019Excerpt: "With climate-fueled disasters on the rise around the world, what role can tool libraries play in aiding community-led disaster response efforts?
" #ToolLibraries can play a huge role in #ClimateResilience and helping communities bounce forward after a disaster, but to be most effective they need to be in place before disasters like super-storms, floods, wildfires, or earthquakes.
"The tools, skills, and community that support a tool library can all be essential ingredients for rapid response and rebuilding. As we’ve seen after recent disasters, it can take weeks — or even months — for effective outside assistance to arrive, so the better-equipped communities are to help themselves, the better they will do after a disaster. Even if a tool library itself is damaged in a disaster, a redundant and reliable platform like #myTurn can help locate the tools that were checked out at the time of the disaster or items from other nearby tool libraries, so they can be put back into service quickly.
"Even before a disaster happens, tool libraries can play a number of roles in disaster preparation. Some of the most popular tools at the #PhinneyToolLibrary like concrete drills, palm nailers, air compressors, reciprocating saws are often borrowed to be used for earthquake retrofits, and the Oakland Tool Library even has earthquake retrofit kits. The social cohesion that tool libraries fosters also helps build community resilience.
"One final important, and often overlooked, benefit of tool libraries, #LibrariesOfThings, and other product sharing services is the large role they can play in reducing GHGs and climate risk in the first place. According to recent research by groups in Europe and the C40 Cities, consumer product consumption is the sector of the economy that has one of the, if not the, biggest environmental impact when taking into account resource extraction, manufacturing, and global supply chains, transportation, storage, use, and eventual disposal of products.
"Beyond reducing the 'embodied' energy in products through #reuse, some organizations are using tool libraries to further advance energy efficiency. For example, the Smart Buildings Center, SDG&E, and CUNY Building Performance Lab all run energy efficiency tool libraries that help homeowners, professionals, and construction companies retrofit existing buildings to reduce their energy use. Using shared tools to reduce energy consumption is a win-win for people, economics, and the planet."
#SolarPunkSunday #DisasterPreparedness #BorrowDontBuy #Resiliency #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
How #LibrariesOfThings build #resilience, fight #ClimateChange, and bring communities together
by Tom Llewellyn
April 17, 2019Excerpt: "With climate-fueled disasters on the rise around the world, what role can tool libraries play in aiding community-led disaster response efforts?
" #ToolLibraries can play a huge role in #ClimateResilience and helping communities bounce forward after a disaster, but to be most effective they need to be in place before disasters like super-storms, floods, wildfires, or earthquakes.
"The tools, skills, and community that support a tool library can all be essential ingredients for rapid response and rebuilding. As we’ve seen after recent disasters, it can take weeks — or even months — for effective outside assistance to arrive, so the better-equipped communities are to help themselves, the better they will do after a disaster. Even if a tool library itself is damaged in a disaster, a redundant and reliable platform like #myTurn can help locate the tools that were checked out at the time of the disaster or items from other nearby tool libraries, so they can be put back into service quickly.
"Even before a disaster happens, tool libraries can play a number of roles in disaster preparation. Some of the most popular tools at the #PhinneyToolLibrary like concrete drills, palm nailers, air compressors, reciprocating saws are often borrowed to be used for earthquake retrofits, and the Oakland Tool Library even has earthquake retrofit kits. The social cohesion that tool libraries fosters also helps build community resilience.
"One final important, and often overlooked, benefit of tool libraries, #LibrariesOfThings, and other product sharing services is the large role they can play in reducing GHGs and climate risk in the first place. According to recent research by groups in Europe and the C40 Cities, consumer product consumption is the sector of the economy that has one of the, if not the, biggest environmental impact when taking into account resource extraction, manufacturing, and global supply chains, transportation, storage, use, and eventual disposal of products.
"Beyond reducing the 'embodied' energy in products through #reuse, some organizations are using tool libraries to further advance energy efficiency. For example, the Smart Buildings Center, SDG&E, and CUNY Building Performance Lab all run energy efficiency tool libraries that help homeowners, professionals, and construction companies retrofit existing buildings to reduce their energy use. Using shared tools to reduce energy consumption is a win-win for people, economics, and the planet."
#SolarPunkSunday #DisasterPreparedness #BorrowDontBuy #Resiliency #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule !
-
Wait'll this person discovers a #LibraryOfThings !
My library card has saved me $1,330 — and I want more
Chicago Public Library tells patrons exactly what they’ve saved. I’ve become obsessed with running up the amount
By Ashlie D. Stevens, September 6, 2026
https://www.salon.com/2026/09/06/my-library-card-has-saved-me-1330-and-i-want-more/
#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #BorrowDontBuy #LibrariesRule !
-
Wait'll this person discovers a #LibraryOfThings !
My library card has saved me $1,330 — and I want more
Chicago Public Library tells patrons exactly what they’ve saved. I’ve become obsessed with running up the amount
By Ashlie D. Stevens, September 6, 2026
https://www.salon.com/2026/09/06/my-library-card-has-saved-me-1330-and-i-want-more/
#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #BorrowDontBuy #LibrariesRule !
-
Wait'll this person discovers a #LibraryOfThings !
My library card has saved me $1,330 — and I want more
Chicago Public Library tells patrons exactly what they’ve saved. I’ve become obsessed with running up the amount
By Ashlie D. Stevens, September 6, 2026
https://www.salon.com/2026/09/06/my-library-card-has-saved-me-1330-and-i-want-more/
#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #BorrowDontBuy #LibrariesRule !
-
Wait'll this person discovers a #LibraryOfThings !
My library card has saved me $1,330 — and I want more
Chicago Public Library tells patrons exactly what they’ve saved. I’ve become obsessed with running up the amount
By Ashlie D. Stevens, September 6, 2026
https://www.salon.com/2026/09/06/my-library-card-has-saved-me-1330-and-i-want-more/
#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #BorrowDontBuy #LibrariesRule !
-
Wait'll this person discovers a #LibraryOfThings !
My library card has saved me $1,330 — and I want more
Chicago Public Library tells patrons exactly what they’ve saved. I’ve become obsessed with running up the amount
By Ashlie D. Stevens, September 6, 2026
https://www.salon.com/2026/09/06/my-library-card-has-saved-me-1330-and-i-want-more/
#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #BorrowDontBuy #LibrariesRule !
-
"The Maine Gear Library Network exists to share resources and knowledge in order to grow equitable and low-barrier access to outdoor gear for communities across the state.
Gear libraries statewide:
Adaptive Outdoor Education Center – #BrunswickME
Katahdin Gear Library – #MillinocketME
#KindlingCollective – #PortlandME
Maine Bound Adventure Center – #OronoME
#MaineGearShare – #BrunswickME
Skowhegan Outdoors – #SkowheganME
#OldTownME / #OronoME Gear Library – In DevelopmentPartners:
#CurtisMemorialLibrary of Things – #BrunswickME
#Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness – #BangorME
Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation – StatewideThe Maine Gear Library Network is a growing coalition of community organizations working together to make outdoor adventures more #accessible, #affordable, and #sustainable.
From #tents and #backpacks to #snowshoes and #kayaks, gear libraries around the state are helping more people get outside, regardless of income, experience, or zip code. By sharing resources and knowledge, the Maine Gear Library Network is building a culture of collaboration and sharing, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to explore and enjoy Maine’s incredible natural places.
What is a Gear Library?A gear library is a community-powered lending program that provides low-cost access to outdoor equipment, such as kayaks, #bikes, backpacks, snowshoes, and more. Their models may differ, but these gear libraries share a common goal of supporting equitable access to the outdoors by removing the barrier of gear ownership, inviting more #Mainers to connect with nature."
FMI:
https://www.mainegearshare.org/maine-gear-library-network#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #GearHub #GearLibraries #SpendTimeOutdoors #BikeTooter #Biking #Kayaking #Camping
-
#AngusON + #ThorntonON - #EssaPublicLibrary #LibraryOfThings
"#BoardGames
#Unplugged family fun.#BookClubSets
Borrow multiple copies of books for your group. Kids and adults sets available.#ContentCreatorKits
Audio and video equipment.#HobbyKits
Try #crochet, #knitting, or use #stamps and paper punches to make crafty creations.#KitchenLibrary
Borrow culinary appliances and hosting items for your next meal or gathering.#LightTherapy Lamps
Brighten your day with a light therapy lamp at home.#MakerKits
Explore coding, constructing, and #STEAM play with these take-home kits.#MemoryCare Kits
Activities designed to engage and exercise the brain.#MusicalKits
Try a ukulele or a pre-laoded MP3 player.Ontario #ParkPasses
Parking entry for one day, for one vehicle, at participating Ontario Parks. Loan period is 1 week, no extensions.#Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles for kids and adults from 25 to 1000 pieces.#SeedLibrary
Borrow seeds and grow your garden, with an option to harvest seeds to share.#TechToGo
Take home a Chromebook, iPad, headphones, projector, telescope, or karaoke machine.Wonderbooks & Read-Alongs
Talking books in interactive audio players and CD formats.#YotoAudioPlayers
Borrow a #Yoto Mini – a child-friendly audio player and audio cards of stories and songs. Audio available in English, French, and Spanish."Learn more:
https://essalibrary.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #Ontario #LibrariesOfThings #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy -
#AngusON + #ThorntonON - #EssaPublicLibrary #LibraryOfThings
"#BoardGames
#Unplugged family fun.#BookClubSets
Borrow multiple copies of books for your group. Kids and adults sets available.#ContentCreatorKits
Audio and video equipment.#HobbyKits
Try #crochet, #knitting, or use #stamps and paper punches to make crafty creations.#KitchenLibrary
Borrow culinary appliances and hosting items for your next meal or gathering.#LightTherapy Lamps
Brighten your day with a light therapy lamp at home.#MakerKits
Explore coding, constructing, and #STEAM play with these take-home kits.#MemoryCare Kits
Activities designed to engage and exercise the brain.#MusicalKits
Try a ukulele or a pre-laoded MP3 player.Ontario #ParkPasses
Parking entry for one day, for one vehicle, at participating Ontario Parks. Loan period is 1 week, no extensions.#Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles for kids and adults from 25 to 1000 pieces.#SeedLibrary
Borrow seeds and grow your garden, with an option to harvest seeds to share.#TechToGo
Take home a Chromebook, iPad, headphones, projector, telescope, or karaoke machine.Wonderbooks & Read-Alongs
Talking books in interactive audio players and CD formats.#YotoAudioPlayers
Borrow a #Yoto Mini – a child-friendly audio player and audio cards of stories and songs. Audio available in English, French, and Spanish."Learn more:
https://essalibrary.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #Ontario #LibrariesOfThings #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy -
#AngusON + #ThorntonON - #EssaPublicLibrary #LibraryOfThings
"#BoardGames
#Unplugged family fun.#BookClubSets
Borrow multiple copies of books for your group. Kids and adults sets available.#ContentCreatorKits
Audio and video equipment.#HobbyKits
Try #crochet, #knitting, or use #stamps and paper punches to make crafty creations.#KitchenLibrary
Borrow culinary appliances and hosting items for your next meal or gathering.#LightTherapy Lamps
Brighten your day with a light therapy lamp at home.#MakerKits
Explore coding, constructing, and #STEAM play with these take-home kits.#MemoryCare Kits
Activities designed to engage and exercise the brain.#MusicalKits
Try a ukulele or a pre-laoded MP3 player.Ontario #ParkPasses
Parking entry for one day, for one vehicle, at participating Ontario Parks. Loan period is 1 week, no extensions.#Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles for kids and adults from 25 to 1000 pieces.#SeedLibrary
Borrow seeds and grow your garden, with an option to harvest seeds to share.#TechToGo
Take home a Chromebook, iPad, headphones, projector, telescope, or karaoke machine.Wonderbooks & Read-Alongs
Talking books in interactive audio players and CD formats.#YotoAudioPlayers
Borrow a #Yoto Mini – a child-friendly audio player and audio cards of stories and songs. Audio available in English, French, and Spanish."Learn more:
https://essalibrary.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #Ontario #LibrariesOfThings #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy -
#AngusON + #ThorntonON - #EssaPublicLibrary #LibraryOfThings
"#BoardGames
#Unplugged family fun.#BookClubSets
Borrow multiple copies of books for your group. Kids and adults sets available.#ContentCreatorKits
Audio and video equipment.#HobbyKits
Try #crochet, #knitting, or use #stamps and paper punches to make crafty creations.#KitchenLibrary
Borrow culinary appliances and hosting items for your next meal or gathering.#LightTherapy Lamps
Brighten your day with a light therapy lamp at home.#MakerKits
Explore coding, constructing, and #STEAM play with these take-home kits.#MemoryCare Kits
Activities designed to engage and exercise the brain.#MusicalKits
Try a ukulele or a pre-laoded MP3 player.Ontario #ParkPasses
Parking entry for one day, for one vehicle, at participating Ontario Parks. Loan period is 1 week, no extensions.#Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles for kids and adults from 25 to 1000 pieces.#SeedLibrary
Borrow seeds and grow your garden, with an option to harvest seeds to share.#TechToGo
Take home a Chromebook, iPad, headphones, projector, telescope, or karaoke machine.Wonderbooks & Read-Alongs
Talking books in interactive audio players and CD formats.#YotoAudioPlayers
Borrow a #Yoto Mini – a child-friendly audio player and audio cards of stories and songs. Audio available in English, French, and Spanish."Learn more:
https://essalibrary.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #Ontario #LibrariesOfThings #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy -
#AngusON + #ThorntonON - #EssaPublicLibrary #LibraryOfThings
"#BoardGames
#Unplugged family fun.#BookClubSets
Borrow multiple copies of books for your group. Kids and adults sets available.#ContentCreatorKits
Audio and video equipment.#HobbyKits
Try #crochet, #knitting, or use #stamps and paper punches to make crafty creations.#KitchenLibrary
Borrow culinary appliances and hosting items for your next meal or gathering.#LightTherapy Lamps
Brighten your day with a light therapy lamp at home.#MakerKits
Explore coding, constructing, and #STEAM play with these take-home kits.#MemoryCare Kits
Activities designed to engage and exercise the brain.#MusicalKits
Try a ukulele or a pre-laoded MP3 player.Ontario #ParkPasses
Parking entry for one day, for one vehicle, at participating Ontario Parks. Loan period is 1 week, no extensions.#Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles for kids and adults from 25 to 1000 pieces.#SeedLibrary
Borrow seeds and grow your garden, with an option to harvest seeds to share.#TechToGo
Take home a Chromebook, iPad, headphones, projector, telescope, or karaoke machine.Wonderbooks & Read-Alongs
Talking books in interactive audio players and CD formats.#YotoAudioPlayers
Borrow a #Yoto Mini – a child-friendly audio player and audio cards of stories and songs. Audio available in English, French, and Spanish."Learn more:
https://essalibrary.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #Ontario #LibrariesOfThings #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy -
#SaintCatharinesON - #LibraryOfThings
" #SCPL is so much more than books. Explore the non-traditional items in our collection!
- Sports and Leisure
- Musical Instruments
- Parks Passes
- #STEM Kits
- #Tools
- #VideoGameConsoles
- #Multimedia Collection
- #MemoryKits
- #NexPlayground
- #DrawingTablet
- #ThermalCamera
- C-Pen #ReaderPen
- Makers: From cookie cutters to knitting needles, explore your creative side with a variety of helpful tools.
- #LightAndSoundTherapy
- #KillAWatt Monitors
- Portable WiFi #Hotspots
- #BoardGames & #Puzzles
- #CarbonDioxide Monitors
- Kids #ExplorerKits
- #BicycleRepairKits
- Youth #FishingKits
- Youth Life Vests
- #Telescope Set
- #RadonDetectorsLearn more:
https://www.myscpl.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy #DIY #AssistiveTechnology #HomeSafety -
#SaintCatharinesON - #LibraryOfThings
" #SCPL is so much more than books. Explore the non-traditional items in our collection!
- Sports and Leisure
- Musical Instruments
- Parks Passes
- #STEM Kits
- #Tools
- #VideoGameConsoles
- #Multimedia Collection
- #MemoryKits
- #NexPlayground
- #DrawingTablet
- #ThermalCamera
- C-Pen #ReaderPen
- Makers: From cookie cutters to knitting needles, explore your creative side with a variety of helpful tools.
- #LightAndSoundTherapy
- #KillAWatt Monitors
- Portable WiFi #Hotspots
- #BoardGames & #Puzzles
- #CarbonDioxide Monitors
- Kids #ExplorerKits
- #BicycleRepairKits
- Youth #FishingKits
- Youth Life Vests
- #Telescope Set
- #RadonDetectorsLearn more:
https://www.myscpl.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy #DIY #AssistiveTechnology #HomeSafety -
#SaintCatharinesON - #LibraryOfThings
" #SCPL is so much more than books. Explore the non-traditional items in our collection!
- Sports and Leisure
- Musical Instruments
- Parks Passes
- #STEM Kits
- #Tools
- #VideoGameConsoles
- #Multimedia Collection
- #MemoryKits
- #NexPlayground
- #DrawingTablet
- #ThermalCamera
- C-Pen #ReaderPen
- Makers: From cookie cutters to knitting needles, explore your creative side with a variety of helpful tools.
- #LightAndSoundTherapy
- #KillAWatt Monitors
- Portable WiFi #Hotspots
- #BoardGames & #Puzzles
- #CarbonDioxide Monitors
- Kids #ExplorerKits
- #BicycleRepairKits
- Youth #FishingKits
- Youth Life Vests
- #Telescope Set
- #RadonDetectorsLearn more:
https://www.myscpl.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy #DIY #AssistiveTechnology #HomeSafety -
#SaintCatharinesON - #LibraryOfThings
" #SCPL is so much more than books. Explore the non-traditional items in our collection!
- Sports and Leisure
- Musical Instruments
- Parks Passes
- #STEM Kits
- #Tools
- #VideoGameConsoles
- #Multimedia Collection
- #MemoryKits
- #NexPlayground
- #DrawingTablet
- #ThermalCamera
- C-Pen #ReaderPen
- Makers: From cookie cutters to knitting needles, explore your creative side with a variety of helpful tools.
- #LightAndSoundTherapy
- #KillAWatt Monitors
- Portable WiFi #Hotspots
- #BoardGames & #Puzzles
- #CarbonDioxide Monitors
- Kids #ExplorerKits
- #BicycleRepairKits
- Youth #FishingKits
- Youth Life Vests
- #Telescope Set
- #RadonDetectorsLearn more:
https://www.myscpl.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy #DIY #AssistiveTechnology #HomeSafety -
#SaintCatharinesON - #LibraryOfThings
" #SCPL is so much more than books. Explore the non-traditional items in our collection!
- Sports and Leisure
- Musical Instruments
- Parks Passes
- #STEM Kits
- #Tools
- #VideoGameConsoles
- #Multimedia Collection
- #MemoryKits
- #NexPlayground
- #DrawingTablet
- #ThermalCamera
- C-Pen #ReaderPen
- Makers: From cookie cutters to knitting needles, explore your creative side with a variety of helpful tools.
- #LightAndSoundTherapy
- #KillAWatt Monitors
- Portable WiFi #Hotspots
- #BoardGames & #Puzzles
- #CarbonDioxide Monitors
- Kids #ExplorerKits
- #BicycleRepairKits
- Youth #FishingKits
- Youth Life Vests
- #Telescope Set
- #RadonDetectorsLearn more:
https://www.myscpl.ca/borrow/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy #DIY #AssistiveTechnology #HomeSafety -
"Guelph Public Library’s Library of Things lets you explore all kinds of unique items beyond books. It’s a chance to discover new interests, connect with practical tools or fun activities, and thrive by trying something different.
- Board games
- Educational toys
- Computer and internet devices
- Hobbies
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Outdoor games
- Kits
- #AssistiveTechnology
- Beginner robotics
- Monitors and meters
- Permits and passes"FMI:
https://www.guelphpl.ca/libraryofthings/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy -
"Guelph Public Library’s Library of Things lets you explore all kinds of unique items beyond books. It’s a chance to discover new interests, connect with practical tools or fun activities, and thrive by trying something different.
- Board games
- Educational toys
- Computer and internet devices
- Hobbies
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Outdoor games
- Kits
- #AssistiveTechnology
- Beginner robotics
- Monitors and meters
- Permits and passes"FMI:
https://www.guelphpl.ca/libraryofthings/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy -
"Guelph Public Library’s Library of Things lets you explore all kinds of unique items beyond books. It’s a chance to discover new interests, connect with practical tools or fun activities, and thrive by trying something different.
- Board games
- Educational toys
- Computer and internet devices
- Hobbies
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Outdoor games
- Kits
- #AssistiveTechnology
- Beginner robotics
- Monitors and meters
- Permits and passes"FMI:
https://www.guelphpl.ca/libraryofthings/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy -
"Guelph Public Library’s Library of Things lets you explore all kinds of unique items beyond books. It’s a chance to discover new interests, connect with practical tools or fun activities, and thrive by trying something different.
- Board games
- Educational toys
- Computer and internet devices
- Hobbies
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Outdoor games
- Kits
- #AssistiveTechnology
- Beginner robotics
- Monitors and meters
- Permits and passes"FMI:
https://www.guelphpl.ca/libraryofthings/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy -
"Guelph Public Library’s Library of Things lets you explore all kinds of unique items beyond books. It’s a chance to discover new interests, connect with practical tools or fun activities, and thrive by trying something different.
- Board games
- Educational toys
- Computer and internet devices
- Hobbies
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Outdoor games
- Kits
- #AssistiveTechnology
- Beginner robotics
- Monitors and meters
- Permits and passes"FMI:
https://www.guelphpl.ca/libraryofthings/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy
#LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy -
#PeterboroughON - #LibraryOfThings
"The Library is about more than just books, music, and media. We have a growing collection of 'things' that you can check out on your library card or use at the Library.
Borrowing and sharing things is a great way to save money while helping the environment.
#NatureBagsWe have a variety of Nature Bags you can choose from and borrow with your library card.
#BoardGamesBoard games are available to use when you are visiting the library. We have a collection of games for all ages and interests.
Canoe #MuseumPassesWe are excited to partner with the Canadian Canoe Museum to offer passes to our members.
#CarbonDioxide MonitorsCurious about the air quality in your home? You can now borrow a Carbon Dioxide monitor with your Library card!
Community #SeedExchangeDrop off your extra seeds and pick up some new ones! Please don't take more than you leave.
Thank you to #Nogojiwanong #MutualAid for building the Seed Exchange display in the Main Library lobby.
Coding BotsCheck out a Sphero Mini to code at home or visit the Library and use a Sphero Bolt in the Children's Area.
#DiscGolf KitsThis game is played by throwing discs at a series of targets along a Disc Golf course. The rules of play are very similar to regular golf.
LaunchpadsCheck out pre-loaded tablets with fun puzzles, games, interactive books, and other activities that introduce STEAM concepts to children ages 3 and up.
#MakerBoxesMaker Boxes are only available for in-house use while at the Library. There is no limit to the number of Maker Boxes you can try during a visit.
Ontario Provincial #ParksPassesWe are excited to partner with Ontario Parks to offer Ontario Provincial Park passes to our members.
#RadonDetectorsRadon detectors are available for loan to help you assess the risk of exposure in your home.
#WattReadersCombat #ClimateChange and save money on electricity bills by checking the electricity use of your appliances."
FMI:
https://www.ptbolibrary.ca/collections/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy
-
#PeterboroughON - #LibraryOfThings
"The Library is about more than just books, music, and media. We have a growing collection of 'things' that you can check out on your library card or use at the Library.
Borrowing and sharing things is a great way to save money while helping the environment.
#NatureBagsWe have a variety of Nature Bags you can choose from and borrow with your library card.
#BoardGamesBoard games are available to use when you are visiting the library. We have a collection of games for all ages and interests.
Canoe #MuseumPassesWe are excited to partner with the Canadian Canoe Museum to offer passes to our members.
#CarbonDioxide MonitorsCurious about the air quality in your home? You can now borrow a Carbon Dioxide monitor with your Library card!
Community #SeedExchangeDrop off your extra seeds and pick up some new ones! Please don't take more than you leave.
Thank you to #Nogojiwanong #MutualAid for building the Seed Exchange display in the Main Library lobby.
Coding BotsCheck out a Sphero Mini to code at home or visit the Library and use a Sphero Bolt in the Children's Area.
#DiscGolf KitsThis game is played by throwing discs at a series of targets along a Disc Golf course. The rules of play are very similar to regular golf.
LaunchpadsCheck out pre-loaded tablets with fun puzzles, games, interactive books, and other activities that introduce STEAM concepts to children ages 3 and up.
#MakerBoxesMaker Boxes are only available for in-house use while at the Library. There is no limit to the number of Maker Boxes you can try during a visit.
Ontario Provincial #ParksPassesWe are excited to partner with Ontario Parks to offer Ontario Provincial Park passes to our members.
#RadonDetectorsRadon detectors are available for loan to help you assess the risk of exposure in your home.
#WattReadersCombat #ClimateChange and save money on electricity bills by checking the electricity use of your appliances."
FMI:
https://www.ptbolibrary.ca/collections/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy
-
#PeterboroughON - #LibraryOfThings
"The Library is about more than just books, music, and media. We have a growing collection of 'things' that you can check out on your library card or use at the Library.
Borrowing and sharing things is a great way to save money while helping the environment.
#NatureBagsWe have a variety of Nature Bags you can choose from and borrow with your library card.
#BoardGamesBoard games are available to use when you are visiting the library. We have a collection of games for all ages and interests.
Canoe #MuseumPassesWe are excited to partner with the Canadian Canoe Museum to offer passes to our members.
#CarbonDioxide MonitorsCurious about the air quality in your home? You can now borrow a Carbon Dioxide monitor with your Library card!
Community #SeedExchangeDrop off your extra seeds and pick up some new ones! Please don't take more than you leave.
Thank you to #Nogojiwanong #MutualAid for building the Seed Exchange display in the Main Library lobby.
Coding BotsCheck out a Sphero Mini to code at home or visit the Library and use a Sphero Bolt in the Children's Area.
#DiscGolf KitsThis game is played by throwing discs at a series of targets along a Disc Golf course. The rules of play are very similar to regular golf.
LaunchpadsCheck out pre-loaded tablets with fun puzzles, games, interactive books, and other activities that introduce STEAM concepts to children ages 3 and up.
#MakerBoxesMaker Boxes are only available for in-house use while at the Library. There is no limit to the number of Maker Boxes you can try during a visit.
Ontario Provincial #ParksPassesWe are excited to partner with Ontario Parks to offer Ontario Provincial Park passes to our members.
#RadonDetectorsRadon detectors are available for loan to help you assess the risk of exposure in your home.
#WattReadersCombat #ClimateChange and save money on electricity bills by checking the electricity use of your appliances."
FMI:
https://www.ptbolibrary.ca/collections/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy
-
#PeterboroughON - #LibraryOfThings
"The Library is about more than just books, music, and media. We have a growing collection of 'things' that you can check out on your library card or use at the Library.
Borrowing and sharing things is a great way to save money while helping the environment.
#NatureBagsWe have a variety of Nature Bags you can choose from and borrow with your library card.
#BoardGamesBoard games are available to use when you are visiting the library. We have a collection of games for all ages and interests.
Canoe #MuseumPassesWe are excited to partner with the Canadian Canoe Museum to offer passes to our members.
#CarbonDioxide MonitorsCurious about the air quality in your home? You can now borrow a Carbon Dioxide monitor with your Library card!
Community #SeedExchangeDrop off your extra seeds and pick up some new ones! Please don't take more than you leave.
Thank you to #Nogojiwanong #MutualAid for building the Seed Exchange display in the Main Library lobby.
Coding BotsCheck out a Sphero Mini to code at home or visit the Library and use a Sphero Bolt in the Children's Area.
#DiscGolf KitsThis game is played by throwing discs at a series of targets along a Disc Golf course. The rules of play are very similar to regular golf.
LaunchpadsCheck out pre-loaded tablets with fun puzzles, games, interactive books, and other activities that introduce STEAM concepts to children ages 3 and up.
#MakerBoxesMaker Boxes are only available for in-house use while at the Library. There is no limit to the number of Maker Boxes you can try during a visit.
Ontario Provincial #ParksPassesWe are excited to partner with Ontario Parks to offer Ontario Provincial Park passes to our members.
#RadonDetectorsRadon detectors are available for loan to help you assess the risk of exposure in your home.
#WattReadersCombat #ClimateChange and save money on electricity bills by checking the electricity use of your appliances."
FMI:
https://www.ptbolibrary.ca/collections/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy
-
#PeterboroughON - #LibraryOfThings
"The Library is about more than just books, music, and media. We have a growing collection of 'things' that you can check out on your library card or use at the Library.
Borrowing and sharing things is a great way to save money while helping the environment.
#NatureBagsWe have a variety of Nature Bags you can choose from and borrow with your library card.
#BoardGamesBoard games are available to use when you are visiting the library. We have a collection of games for all ages and interests.
Canoe #MuseumPassesWe are excited to partner with the Canadian Canoe Museum to offer passes to our members.
#CarbonDioxide MonitorsCurious about the air quality in your home? You can now borrow a Carbon Dioxide monitor with your Library card!
Community #SeedExchangeDrop off your extra seeds and pick up some new ones! Please don't take more than you leave.
Thank you to #Nogojiwanong #MutualAid for building the Seed Exchange display in the Main Library lobby.
Coding BotsCheck out a Sphero Mini to code at home or visit the Library and use a Sphero Bolt in the Children's Area.
#DiscGolf KitsThis game is played by throwing discs at a series of targets along a Disc Golf course. The rules of play are very similar to regular golf.
LaunchpadsCheck out pre-loaded tablets with fun puzzles, games, interactive books, and other activities that introduce STEAM concepts to children ages 3 and up.
#MakerBoxesMaker Boxes are only available for in-house use while at the Library. There is no limit to the number of Maker Boxes you can try during a visit.
Ontario Provincial #ParksPassesWe are excited to partner with Ontario Parks to offer Ontario Provincial Park passes to our members.
#RadonDetectorsRadon detectors are available for loan to help you assess the risk of exposure in your home.
#WattReadersCombat #ClimateChange and save money on electricity bills by checking the electricity use of your appliances."
FMI:
https://www.ptbolibrary.ca/collections/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesRule #LibrariesOfThings #Ontario #BorrowDontBuy
-
Checking out #GearLibraries just makes sense
Sharing equipment makes #OutdoorRecreation more accessible, equitable and #sustainable.
By Amy Paradysz, Winter 2025-26
"We're all familiar with the principle behind #libraries: The community shares a collection of books so we can all access media without having to buy, own or store it. Gear libraries are built on the same notion: Sharing equipment makes outdoor recreation more accessible, more equitable and more sustainable. And sometimes it just makes good sense: Do you really want to own that pull-behind ski chariot that you might use once or twice?
"Thanks to a new coalition called the #MaineGearLibraryNetwork, it’s becoming easier to access a wider variety of gear throughout the state. For example, although #KindlingCollective in downtown #PortlandME doesn’t have enough space to stock a wide variety of outdoor apparel, their members can borrow what they need through #MaineGearShare in #BrunswickME at no additional charge.
" 'The network is a growing coalition of community organizations that are working together to make outdoor recreation more accessible, especially for rural, low-income and historically excluded communities,' said Maine GearShare Advancement Manager Emily Mackeown. 'This means that more Mainers can enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.'
"The lending or renting model varies greatly across the network. At some gear libraries, members can check out items for free—and membership may be as simple as having a card to your local library.
"More commonly, there’s a fee to check out items, but gear libraries that are nonprofits or under the auspices of a public library or university can charge less than a for-profit rental business would.
"Sometimes there’s a sliding scale based on socioeconomic factors; basically, people with more resources subsidize gear for those with fewer resources. At some gear libraries, groups like school outing clubs can save a great deal of money by purchasing a membership that covers hundreds of 'participant days' worth of gear, eliminating choices of what gear, exactly, they can afford to borrow."
Learn more:
https://www.greenhealthymaine.com/blog/gear-libraries#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SharingEconomy #SpendTimeInNature #Kayaks #Hiking #Maine #OutdoorRecreation
-
Why Shop? In #Maine, the #LibraryOfThings Has It All (Almost).
One town’s effort to make pricey items accessible and encourage people to buy less stuff seems to be catching on.
By Cara Buckley, Aug. 20, 2025
"Here’s a short but by no means comprehensive list of items that patrons of Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, Maine, can check out for free: A dumpling steamer. Cannoli-making tubes. A ukulele. A heated leg massager. A Happy Birthday sign. Easels. A foam ax throwing game. A KitchenAid mixer, in chrome or red.
"Mary Gerber, a retired schoolteacher, borrowed hula hoops and a cornhole game for her son’s 2022 backyard wedding, and, more recently, a spiralizer for her homegrown zucchini. Betty McNally, a retired bookkeeper, routinely borrows a loom and a drop spindle to hand-spin yarn. In late July, she checked out a root slayer to tackle the overly abundant hostas in her yard. She’d had it on hold, because there was a waiting list.
'It feels revolutionary,' Ms. McNally said. 'I’m not buying it and storing it and the great thing is it’s really useful but I’m probably only going to use it once or twice. This way, other people can use it. It’s perfection.'"The Library of Things at Curtis Memorial Library was founded in 2018 to make pricey items accessible and encourage people to buy less stuff. It now has more than 1,500 items, all tailored to meet the needs of the roughly 22,600 people who live in Brunswick, as well as nearby #HarpswellME, which has a population of just over 5,000.
"There’s a driving kit with miniature street signs, a lesson book and a sample test to familiarize new drivers and migrants with the rules of the road. #FoodCanners, fruit tree pickers, molds for homemade Popsicles, a #FoodDehydrator and tomato strainers are offered to help people make their own food.
"Items in high demand can be checked out for only a week, and include a #GrainMill for grinding fresh flour, a nut wizard to gather acorns and other nuts, and, this being Maine, a #BlueberryRake."
Read more:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/20/climate/maine-library-of-things.htmlArchived version:
https://archive.ph/yoxBx#SolarPunkSunday #CurtisMemorialLibrary #BrunswickME #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #PreservingTheHarvest