#borrowdontbuy — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #borrowdontbuy, aggregated by home.social.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.
We currently offer:
- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classesFor more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].
Library List
Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, BuckfieldNature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."
Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
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"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.
We currently offer:
- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classesFor more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].
Library List
Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, BuckfieldNature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."
Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
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"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.
We currently offer:
- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classesFor more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].
Library List
Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, BuckfieldNature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."
Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
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"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.
We currently offer:
- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classesFor more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].
Library List
Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, BuckfieldNature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."
Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
-
"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.
We currently offer:
- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classesFor more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].
Library List
Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, BuckfieldNature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."
Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
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#LewistonID library to lend outdoor activity kits thanks to new grant
By James Dawson
Published November 11, 2024"Library users in the Lewiston area will soon have the chance to try gold panning, #birdwatching and other outdoor activities free of charge.
The #LewistonCityLibrary recently won a grant from the National Forest Community Recreation Fund to put together outdoor activity kits its users can check out starting next month. The Idaho Capital Sun first reported this story.
'We’re excited to partner with the Lewiston City Library to support new ways for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with public lands, learn about conservation, and inspire them to take an active role in #stewardship,' said Angela Edwards, a partnership coordinator with the #NezPerceClearwater #NationalForests.
Kits include equipment needed for gold panning, birdwatching, #hiking and #camping. A #DutchOven will also be available for those wanting to experience cooking outdoors.
Those are on top of the fishing poles the library has loaned out for years, according to library director Lynn Johnson.
'It seemed like a good way for us to offer things for the public that are a little out of the ordinary,' Johnson said in a press release.
'Libraries are about opportunity. Whether you have limited means or lots of access and wealth, we want to help people of all means try something out,' she said.
These new outdoor activity kits will be available to check out by those with a Valnet library card, which includes a group of 48 school and public libraries in north central Idaho stretching from Elk City to Potlatch."
Source:
https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2024-11-11/lewiston-library-outdoor-kits#Idaho #LibrariesRule! #libraryOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #OutdoorAdventureKits #SpendTimeInNature #BorrowingBeyondBooks #OutdoorLearning #NatureBasedLearning
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#LewistonID library to lend outdoor activity kits thanks to new grant
By James Dawson
Published November 11, 2024"Library users in the Lewiston area will soon have the chance to try gold panning, #birdwatching and other outdoor activities free of charge.
The #LewistonCityLibrary recently won a grant from the National Forest Community Recreation Fund to put together outdoor activity kits its users can check out starting next month. The Idaho Capital Sun first reported this story.
'We’re excited to partner with the Lewiston City Library to support new ways for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with public lands, learn about conservation, and inspire them to take an active role in #stewardship,' said Angela Edwards, a partnership coordinator with the #NezPerceClearwater #NationalForests.
Kits include equipment needed for gold panning, birdwatching, #hiking and #camping. A #DutchOven will also be available for those wanting to experience cooking outdoors.
Those are on top of the fishing poles the library has loaned out for years, according to library director Lynn Johnson.
'It seemed like a good way for us to offer things for the public that are a little out of the ordinary,' Johnson said in a press release.
'Libraries are about opportunity. Whether you have limited means or lots of access and wealth, we want to help people of all means try something out,' she said.
These new outdoor activity kits will be available to check out by those with a Valnet library card, which includes a group of 48 school and public libraries in north central Idaho stretching from Elk City to Potlatch."
Source:
https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2024-11-11/lewiston-library-outdoor-kits#Idaho #LibrariesRule! #libraryOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #OutdoorAdventureKits #SpendTimeInNature #BorrowingBeyondBooks #OutdoorLearning #NatureBasedLearning
-
#LewistonID library to lend outdoor activity kits thanks to new grant
By James Dawson
Published November 11, 2024"Library users in the Lewiston area will soon have the chance to try gold panning, #birdwatching and other outdoor activities free of charge.
The #LewistonCityLibrary recently won a grant from the National Forest Community Recreation Fund to put together outdoor activity kits its users can check out starting next month. The Idaho Capital Sun first reported this story.
'We’re excited to partner with the Lewiston City Library to support new ways for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with public lands, learn about conservation, and inspire them to take an active role in #stewardship,' said Angela Edwards, a partnership coordinator with the #NezPerceClearwater #NationalForests.
Kits include equipment needed for gold panning, birdwatching, #hiking and #camping. A #DutchOven will also be available for those wanting to experience cooking outdoors.
Those are on top of the fishing poles the library has loaned out for years, according to library director Lynn Johnson.
'It seemed like a good way for us to offer things for the public that are a little out of the ordinary,' Johnson said in a press release.
'Libraries are about opportunity. Whether you have limited means or lots of access and wealth, we want to help people of all means try something out,' she said.
These new outdoor activity kits will be available to check out by those with a Valnet library card, which includes a group of 48 school and public libraries in north central Idaho stretching from Elk City to Potlatch."
Source:
https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2024-11-11/lewiston-library-outdoor-kits#Idaho #LibrariesRule! #libraryOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #OutdoorAdventureKits #SpendTimeInNature #BorrowingBeyondBooks #OutdoorLearning #NatureBasedLearning
-
#LewistonID library to lend outdoor activity kits thanks to new grant
By James Dawson
Published November 11, 2024"Library users in the Lewiston area will soon have the chance to try gold panning, #birdwatching and other outdoor activities free of charge.
The #LewistonCityLibrary recently won a grant from the National Forest Community Recreation Fund to put together outdoor activity kits its users can check out starting next month. The Idaho Capital Sun first reported this story.
'We’re excited to partner with the Lewiston City Library to support new ways for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with public lands, learn about conservation, and inspire them to take an active role in #stewardship,' said Angela Edwards, a partnership coordinator with the #NezPerceClearwater #NationalForests.
Kits include equipment needed for gold panning, birdwatching, #hiking and #camping. A #DutchOven will also be available for those wanting to experience cooking outdoors.
Those are on top of the fishing poles the library has loaned out for years, according to library director Lynn Johnson.
'It seemed like a good way for us to offer things for the public that are a little out of the ordinary,' Johnson said in a press release.
'Libraries are about opportunity. Whether you have limited means or lots of access and wealth, we want to help people of all means try something out,' she said.
These new outdoor activity kits will be available to check out by those with a Valnet library card, which includes a group of 48 school and public libraries in north central Idaho stretching from Elk City to Potlatch."
Source:
https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2024-11-11/lewiston-library-outdoor-kits#Idaho #LibrariesRule! #libraryOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #OutdoorAdventureKits #SpendTimeInNature #BorrowingBeyondBooks #OutdoorLearning #NatureBasedLearning
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#LewistonID library to lend outdoor activity kits thanks to new grant
By James Dawson
Published November 11, 2024"Library users in the Lewiston area will soon have the chance to try gold panning, #birdwatching and other outdoor activities free of charge.
The #LewistonCityLibrary recently won a grant from the National Forest Community Recreation Fund to put together outdoor activity kits its users can check out starting next month. The Idaho Capital Sun first reported this story.
'We’re excited to partner with the Lewiston City Library to support new ways for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with public lands, learn about conservation, and inspire them to take an active role in #stewardship,' said Angela Edwards, a partnership coordinator with the #NezPerceClearwater #NationalForests.
Kits include equipment needed for gold panning, birdwatching, #hiking and #camping. A #DutchOven will also be available for those wanting to experience cooking outdoors.
Those are on top of the fishing poles the library has loaned out for years, according to library director Lynn Johnson.
'It seemed like a good way for us to offer things for the public that are a little out of the ordinary,' Johnson said in a press release.
'Libraries are about opportunity. Whether you have limited means or lots of access and wealth, we want to help people of all means try something out,' she said.
These new outdoor activity kits will be available to check out by those with a Valnet library card, which includes a group of 48 school and public libraries in north central Idaho stretching from Elk City to Potlatch."
Source:
https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2024-11-11/lewiston-library-outdoor-kits#Idaho #LibrariesRule! #libraryOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #OutdoorAdventureKits #SpendTimeInNature #BorrowingBeyondBooks #OutdoorLearning #NatureBasedLearning
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#RocklandME - #NatureBackpacks for outdoor fun and learning available to check out from #RocklandPublicLibrary
Sun, 03/20/2022
ROCKLAND — "Rockland Public Library announces a new item now available for circulation: #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorerBackpacks.
'Check out a backpack and a world of wildlife will open up for you and your family,' said the Library, in a news release.
Each pack has a custom-made user’s guide that walks you through each item in the backpack and provides #activities, #games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for families on how to enjoy #nature, nature journal templates, simple activity ideas, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with #wildlife.
'Now, your outdoor time can become a science-based experience that fosters #EnvironmentalLiteracy,' said RPL.
Available to Rockland Library cardholders only.
The backpacks have seasonal themes and right now, three are available to borrow
Birds Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Binoculars
- Birds of Maine checklist
- Bird photo cards
- Colored pencils
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Wildlife Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Tracks rubber stamps
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Plants Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Sorting sheet
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box."#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #AdventureBackpacks #LibrariesRule! #MaineLibraries #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
-
#RocklandME - #NatureBackpacks for outdoor fun and learning available to check out from #RocklandPublicLibrary
Sun, 03/20/2022
ROCKLAND — "Rockland Public Library announces a new item now available for circulation: #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorerBackpacks.
'Check out a backpack and a world of wildlife will open up for you and your family,' said the Library, in a news release.
Each pack has a custom-made user’s guide that walks you through each item in the backpack and provides #activities, #games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for families on how to enjoy #nature, nature journal templates, simple activity ideas, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with #wildlife.
'Now, your outdoor time can become a science-based experience that fosters #EnvironmentalLiteracy,' said RPL.
Available to Rockland Library cardholders only.
The backpacks have seasonal themes and right now, three are available to borrow
Birds Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Binoculars
- Birds of Maine checklist
- Bird photo cards
- Colored pencils
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Wildlife Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Tracks rubber stamps
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Plants Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Sorting sheet
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box."#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #AdventureBackpacks #LibrariesRule! #MaineLibraries #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
-
#RocklandME - #NatureBackpacks for outdoor fun and learning available to check out from #RocklandPublicLibrary
Sun, 03/20/2022
ROCKLAND — "Rockland Public Library announces a new item now available for circulation: #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorerBackpacks.
'Check out a backpack and a world of wildlife will open up for you and your family,' said the Library, in a news release.
Each pack has a custom-made user’s guide that walks you through each item in the backpack and provides #activities, #games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for families on how to enjoy #nature, nature journal templates, simple activity ideas, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with #wildlife.
'Now, your outdoor time can become a science-based experience that fosters #EnvironmentalLiteracy,' said RPL.
Available to Rockland Library cardholders only.
The backpacks have seasonal themes and right now, three are available to borrow
Birds Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Binoculars
- Birds of Maine checklist
- Bird photo cards
- Colored pencils
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Wildlife Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Tracks rubber stamps
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Plants Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Sorting sheet
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box."#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #AdventureBackpacks #LibrariesRule! #MaineLibraries #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
-
#RocklandME - #NatureBackpacks for outdoor fun and learning available to check out from #RocklandPublicLibrary
Sun, 03/20/2022
ROCKLAND — "Rockland Public Library announces a new item now available for circulation: #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorerBackpacks.
'Check out a backpack and a world of wildlife will open up for you and your family,' said the Library, in a news release.
Each pack has a custom-made user’s guide that walks you through each item in the backpack and provides #activities, #games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for families on how to enjoy #nature, nature journal templates, simple activity ideas, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with #wildlife.
'Now, your outdoor time can become a science-based experience that fosters #EnvironmentalLiteracy,' said RPL.
Available to Rockland Library cardholders only.
The backpacks have seasonal themes and right now, three are available to borrow
Birds Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Binoculars
- Birds of Maine checklist
- Bird photo cards
- Colored pencils
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Wildlife Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Tracks rubber stamps
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Plants Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Sorting sheet
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box."#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #AdventureBackpacks #LibrariesRule! #MaineLibraries #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
-
#RocklandME - #NatureBackpacks for outdoor fun and learning available to check out from #RocklandPublicLibrary
Sun, 03/20/2022
ROCKLAND — "Rockland Public Library announces a new item now available for circulation: #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorerBackpacks.
'Check out a backpack and a world of wildlife will open up for you and your family,' said the Library, in a news release.
Each pack has a custom-made user’s guide that walks you through each item in the backpack and provides #activities, #games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for families on how to enjoy #nature, nature journal templates, simple activity ideas, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with #wildlife.
'Now, your outdoor time can become a science-based experience that fosters #EnvironmentalLiteracy,' said RPL.
Available to Rockland Library cardholders only.
The backpacks have seasonal themes and right now, three are available to borrow
Birds Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Binoculars
- Birds of Maine checklist
- Bird photo cards
- Colored pencils
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Wildlife Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Tracks rubber stamps
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide
Plants Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Sorting sheet
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box."#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #AdventureBackpacks #LibrariesRule! #MaineLibraries #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning
-
#OgunquitME - New #NatureAdventureBackpacks
"Thanks to a grant from the Maine State Library and their Maine Public Library Fund we have 6 new backpacks with the following themes: #Birding, #NatureHikes and #Tidepooling / Rocks of the Marginal Way. Each theme has 2 backpacks; one backpack containing contents for adults and one backpack with more child-friendly contents.
Here are the new Birding Packs!"
#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #PlantIdentification
-
#OgunquitME - New #NatureAdventureBackpacks
"Thanks to a grant from the Maine State Library and their Maine Public Library Fund we have 6 new backpacks with the following themes: #Birding, #NatureHikes and #Tidepooling / Rocks of the Marginal Way. Each theme has 2 backpacks; one backpack containing contents for adults and one backpack with more child-friendly contents.
Here are the new Birding Packs!"
#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #PlantIdentification
-
#OgunquitME - New #NatureAdventureBackpacks
"Thanks to a grant from the Maine State Library and their Maine Public Library Fund we have 6 new backpacks with the following themes: #Birding, #NatureHikes and #Tidepooling / Rocks of the Marginal Way. Each theme has 2 backpacks; one backpack containing contents for adults and one backpack with more child-friendly contents.
Here are the new Birding Packs!"
#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #PlantIdentification
-
#OgunquitME - New #NatureAdventureBackpacks
"Thanks to a grant from the Maine State Library and their Maine Public Library Fund we have 6 new backpacks with the following themes: #Birding, #NatureHikes and #Tidepooling / Rocks of the Marginal Way. Each theme has 2 backpacks; one backpack containing contents for adults and one backpack with more child-friendly contents.
Here are the new Birding Packs!"
#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #PlantIdentification
-
#OgunquitME - New #NatureAdventureBackpacks
"Thanks to a grant from the Maine State Library and their Maine Public Library Fund we have 6 new backpacks with the following themes: #Birding, #NatureHikes and #Tidepooling / Rocks of the Marginal Way. Each theme has 2 backpacks; one backpack containing contents for adults and one backpack with more child-friendly contents.
Here are the new Birding Packs!"
#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #PlantIdentification
-
#AugustaME - Thanks to the generous support of The Friends of #LithgowLibrary, we now have a #LibraryOfThings!
"A Library of Things allows you to borrow non-traditional library items such as snowshoes or a sewing machine. More than a 'try before you buy' opportunity, the Library of Things aligns with the mission of our library — to offer a collection of materials that meets the needs, interests, and abilities of our diverse #community. A Library of Things promotes sharing with community members, #sustainability, and trying new things. We hope you enjoy!
Interested in donating? Please let us know what you have in mind and we will see if we are able to add it to our collection. Thank you!
Library of Things Policies
- Eligibility: You must be a Lithgow cardholder for at least 3 months and in good standing (current card, no outstanding fees, etc.). Some Library of Things items are strictly limited to Adults only (18+).
- Availability: The Library of Things items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Items may not be reserved & are not available through interlibrary loan.
- Borrowing: You may borrow 5 Library of Things item at a time for up-to two weeks. Items may not be renewed.
- Returning: Library of Things items should be returned in-person only (not in the drop box.) Items should be returned on-time and as a complete kit (all parts included.) Failure to follow the return policy may lead to repair/replacement cost and/or impact borrowing privileges.
- Loss or damage: The card holder is responsible for any repair or replacement due to loss or damage. The card holder is responsible for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur from use of equipment."Learn more:
https://www.lithgowlibrary.org/library-of-things/#SolarPunkSunday #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #CircularEconomy #BorrowDontBuy
-
#ChinaME: Does your town have a #SeedLibrary
by Jude Hsiang
April 23, 2025"Does your town have a Seed Library? Seed Libraries are found all over the world, enabling gardeners to save money and try new types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers."
Read more:
https://townline.org/china-does-your-town-have-a-seed-library/#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#ChinaME: Does your town have a #SeedLibrary
by Jude Hsiang
April 23, 2025"Does your town have a Seed Library? Seed Libraries are found all over the world, enabling gardeners to save money and try new types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers."
Read more:
https://townline.org/china-does-your-town-have-a-seed-library/#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#ChinaME: Does your town have a #SeedLibrary
by Jude Hsiang
April 23, 2025"Does your town have a Seed Library? Seed Libraries are found all over the world, enabling gardeners to save money and try new types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers."
Read more:
https://townline.org/china-does-your-town-have-a-seed-library/#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#ChinaME: Does your town have a #SeedLibrary
by Jude Hsiang
April 23, 2025"Does your town have a Seed Library? Seed Libraries are found all over the world, enabling gardeners to save money and try new types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers."
Read more:
https://townline.org/china-does-your-town-have-a-seed-library/#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#ChinaME: Does your town have a #SeedLibrary
by Jude Hsiang
April 23, 2025"Does your town have a Seed Library? Seed Libraries are found all over the world, enabling gardeners to save money and try new types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers."
Read more:
https://townline.org/china-does-your-town-have-a-seed-library/#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#CamdenME - Check-Out Seeds
"Would you like to take some seeds from the #SeedLibrary for your own garden? Follow the steps below to check out the seeds you want to take!"
FMI:
https://www.librarycamden.org/seedlibrary/#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#CamdenME - Check-Out Seeds
"Would you like to take some seeds from the #SeedLibrary for your own garden? Follow the steps below to check out the seeds you want to take!"
FMI:
https://www.librarycamden.org/seedlibrary/#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#CamdenME - Check-Out Seeds
"Would you like to take some seeds from the #SeedLibrary for your own garden? Follow the steps below to check out the seeds you want to take!"
FMI:
https://www.librarycamden.org/seedlibrary/#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#CamdenME - Check-Out Seeds
"Would you like to take some seeds from the #SeedLibrary for your own garden? Follow the steps below to check out the seeds you want to take!"
FMI:
https://www.librarycamden.org/seedlibrary/#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#CamdenME - Check-Out Seeds
"Would you like to take some seeds from the #SeedLibrary for your own garden? Follow the steps below to check out the seeds you want to take!"
FMI:
https://www.librarycamden.org/seedlibrary/#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine
-
#Maine - Want to try something new in the new year? Check out a ‘library of things’
#Libraries are expanding their offerings beyond books and audiotapes, broadening the potential pursuits of patrons.
by Sophie Burchell, January 2, 2026
CUMBERLAND — "If your New Year’s resolution is to try a new hobby — cooking more diverse recipes, taking up knitting or digging into gardening — but you are not yet ready to make a commitment for all of 2026, there is a shelf at the library for you.
"Stacked with items including a #MortarAndPestle, a #SpinningWheel and a #broadfork, the #LibraryOfThings at Cumberland’s #PrinceMemorialLibrary has objects for all types of pursuits ready for patrons to borrow like they would a book.
" 'The tortilla press is quite popular. A lot of people, they want to have a taco party or something, they want to try it out,' said Kelly Greenlee, community outreach librarian at Prince Memorial Library, which serves #CumberlandME and #NorthYarmouthME.
"Categories of 'things' include arts and craft supplies, science and technology devices, health and wellness equipment and home and garden tools. When acquiring items for this collection, librarians look for items that are typically only used once or twice a year, or things that someone would want to test out before they purchase it for themselves. The collection is intended to save library patrons time and money, as well as broaden their horizons — much like books.
" 'It’s designed to encourage people to have a #SharingEconomy, essentially,' said Greenlee. 'Libraries have always been about sharing resources, and it’s really just an extension of that.' "
Archived version:
https://archive.md/cWBiQ#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #MaineLibraries #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy
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What if Everything is Free? Exploring The #LibraryOfThings Concept
"Research has shown that people are increasingly open to collaborative consumption, with studies indicating a rising willingness to share goods instead of purchasing them outright."
by Jed Brown, Feb 19, 2025
"In today’s consumer-driven society, the idea of ownership is so deeply ingrained that imagining a world where everything is free can seem radical — if not downright impossible.
Yet, emerging initiatives like the Library of Things invite us to reconsider our relationship with material goods. Rather than accumulating items, communities are experimenting with a model where objects are shared rather than owned."
Read more:
https://medium.com/@jedbrown99/what-if-everything-is-free-f52874528afc#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #Degrowth #LibrariesOfThings #Decapitalize
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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
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#PublicLibrariesVictoria #Australia - #LibraryOfThings
"The library extends beyond books and embraces a vast array of useful items. This initiative is unique to each library, providing the community to borrow a diverse range of objects. Transforming the library into a hub of shared resources.
From tools and electronics to kitchen appliances and party supplies to children’s toys and hiking equipment. The concept expands access to items that might otherwise be unaffordable or underutilized. By borrowing rather than buying patrons not only save money but also promote sustainable consumption and reduce waste. Providing an opportunity for skill building, or to experiment with a new hobby. All the Library of Things across Victoria exemplify the collaborative spirit of the community offering the shared pool of resources.
Please get in contact with your closest library to discover what their Library of Things consists of.
By aligning with these SDG targets, a ‘library of things’ facilitates sustainable consumption, reduces waste, promotes community engagement and supports the development of resilient and inclusive cities. It encourages collaboration, knowledge sharing and partnerships to address the challenges of sustainable development and create more sustainable and resourceful communities.
Libraries that offer this initiative:
Bayside Libraries
Boroondara Libraries
Brimbank Libraries
Darebin Libraries
Geelong Regional Libraries
Glen Eira Libraries
Greater Dandenong Libraries
Goulburn Valley Libraries
Hobsons Bay Libraries
Hume Libraries
Melbourne Libraries
Mitchell Shire Libraries
MYLI - My Community Libraries
Whitehorse Manningham Libraries"FMI - https://www.plv.org.au/initiatives/library-of-things/
#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesOfThings #LibraryOfThingsAustralia #BorrowDontBuy #Australia #VictoriaAustralia
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#SydneyNSW, #Australia - Why Buy When You Can Borrow?
"The #Sydney #LibraryOfThings is a not-for-profit service that provides the local community with access to a collection of extremely useful but only occasionally used items that can be loaned out for a short period of time.
We’re like a normal library but with things instead of books! Joining your enables you to borrow from ALL of our branches and you don’t have to live in the local area of the branch you want to join! Find out more about subscriptions and how it works here.
We hope that by encouraging people to borrow instead of buying or throwing away their unwanted items, together we can create a better connected, more sustainable and stronger community.
Did you know we also deliver #RepairCafes and run a #ToyLibrary? Check out #FixItHub Waverton, #TheFixery Cromer and The Lane Cove Toy Library.We acknowledge the original custodians of the lands we work from, and pay respect to Elders past and present and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."
FMI - https://thesydneylibraryofthings.org.au/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #FixIt #Australia #Decolonise #Degrowth #Decapitalise #LibraryOfThingsAustralia
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#SydneyNSW, #Australia - Why Buy When You Can Borrow?
"The #Sydney #LibraryOfThings is a not-for-profit service that provides the local community with access to a collection of extremely useful but only occasionally used items that can be loaned out for a short period of time.
We’re like a normal library but with things instead of books! Joining your enables you to borrow from ALL of our branches and you don’t have to live in the local area of the branch you want to join! Find out more about subscriptions and how it works here.
We hope that by encouraging people to borrow instead of buying or throwing away their unwanted items, together we can create a better connected, more sustainable and stronger community.
Did you know we also deliver #RepairCafes and run a #ToyLibrary? Check out #FixItHub Waverton, #TheFixery Cromer and The Lane Cove Toy Library.We acknowledge the original custodians of the lands we work from, and pay respect to Elders past and present and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."
FMI - https://thesydneylibraryofthings.org.au/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #FixIt #Australia #Decolonise #Degrowth #Decapitalise #LibraryOfThingsAustralia
-
#SydneyNSW, #Australia - Why Buy When You Can Borrow?
"The #Sydney #LibraryOfThings is a not-for-profit service that provides the local community with access to a collection of extremely useful but only occasionally used items that can be loaned out for a short period of time.
We’re like a normal library but with things instead of books! Joining your enables you to borrow from ALL of our branches and you don’t have to live in the local area of the branch you want to join! Find out more about subscriptions and how it works here.
We hope that by encouraging people to borrow instead of buying or throwing away their unwanted items, together we can create a better connected, more sustainable and stronger community.
Did you know we also deliver #RepairCafes and run a #ToyLibrary? Check out #FixItHub Waverton, #TheFixery Cromer and The Lane Cove Toy Library.We acknowledge the original custodians of the lands we work from, and pay respect to Elders past and present and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."
FMI - https://thesydneylibraryofthings.org.au/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #FixIt #Australia #Decolonise #Degrowth #Decapitalise #LibraryOfThingsAustralia
-
#SydneyNSW, #Australia - Why Buy When You Can Borrow?
"The #Sydney #LibraryOfThings is a not-for-profit service that provides the local community with access to a collection of extremely useful but only occasionally used items that can be loaned out for a short period of time.
We’re like a normal library but with things instead of books! Joining your enables you to borrow from ALL of our branches and you don’t have to live in the local area of the branch you want to join! Find out more about subscriptions and how it works here.
We hope that by encouraging people to borrow instead of buying or throwing away their unwanted items, together we can create a better connected, more sustainable and stronger community.
Did you know we also deliver #RepairCafes and run a #ToyLibrary? Check out #FixItHub Waverton, #TheFixery Cromer and The Lane Cove Toy Library.We acknowledge the original custodians of the lands we work from, and pay respect to Elders past and present and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."
FMI - https://thesydneylibraryofthings.org.au/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #FixIt #Australia #Decolonise #Degrowth #Decapitalise #LibraryOfThingsAustralia
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#SydneyNSW, #Australia - Why Buy When You Can Borrow?
"The #Sydney #LibraryOfThings is a not-for-profit service that provides the local community with access to a collection of extremely useful but only occasionally used items that can be loaned out for a short period of time.
We’re like a normal library but with things instead of books! Joining your enables you to borrow from ALL of our branches and you don’t have to live in the local area of the branch you want to join! Find out more about subscriptions and how it works here.
We hope that by encouraging people to borrow instead of buying or throwing away their unwanted items, together we can create a better connected, more sustainable and stronger community.
Did you know we also deliver #RepairCafes and run a #ToyLibrary? Check out #FixItHub Waverton, #TheFixery Cromer and The Lane Cove Toy Library.We acknowledge the original custodians of the lands we work from, and pay respect to Elders past and present and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."
FMI - https://thesydneylibraryofthings.org.au/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #FixIt #Australia #Decolonise #Degrowth #Decapitalise #LibraryOfThingsAustralia
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LIBRARY OF THINGS – Borrowing Beyond Books
"Obtain a Curtis Memorial Library card to borrow from our Library of Things. This collection can be browsed by category below or seen throughout our Nonfiction shelves. Oversize items can be fetched by staff and you may reserve Things for checkout just as you do a book. A listing of all kits is available in Minerva. By checking out a Thing you agree to the Borrowing and Use Guidelines.
Some items in our Library of Things are referred to as “Specialty Items”. Specialty items can only be checked out by our 18+ patrons due to legal and/or safety concerns. For a listing of these Specialty Items, see link below.
Let us know what else we should lend, share how you want to use an item, learn how to share your consumables and repair your items, find out where you can acquire items we don’t lend, or browse more of our community’s ideas at our registry. If an item does not circulate in a year, we give it to another library. Learn where else you can borrow items, why we have a Library of Things, how we support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how you can do so too, by exploring our videos at the bottom of the page. We want to help. Get in touch!"
https://curtislibrary.com/library-of-things/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #LibraryOfThingsMaine #LibrariesOfThings #MaineLibraries #BrunwickME #HolidayCooking #HomeRepairs #Crafting #LoT #LibraryOfThings #LibrariesRule!
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LIBRARY OF THINGS – Borrowing Beyond Books
"Obtain a Curtis Memorial Library card to borrow from our Library of Things. This collection can be browsed by category below or seen throughout our Nonfiction shelves. Oversize items can be fetched by staff and you may reserve Things for checkout just as you do a book. A listing of all kits is available in Minerva. By checking out a Thing you agree to the Borrowing and Use Guidelines.
Some items in our Library of Things are referred to as “Specialty Items”. Specialty items can only be checked out by our 18+ patrons due to legal and/or safety concerns. For a listing of these Specialty Items, see link below.
Let us know what else we should lend, share how you want to use an item, learn how to share your consumables and repair your items, find out where you can acquire items we don’t lend, or browse more of our community’s ideas at our registry. If an item does not circulate in a year, we give it to another library. Learn where else you can borrow items, why we have a Library of Things, how we support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how you can do so too, by exploring our videos at the bottom of the page. We want to help. Get in touch!"
https://curtislibrary.com/library-of-things/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #LibraryOfThingsMaine #LibrariesOfThings #MaineLibraries #BrunwickME #HolidayCooking #HomeRepairs #Crafting #LoT #LibraryOfThings #LibrariesRule!
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LIBRARY OF THINGS – Borrowing Beyond Books
"Obtain a Curtis Memorial Library card to borrow from our Library of Things. This collection can be browsed by category below or seen throughout our Nonfiction shelves. Oversize items can be fetched by staff and you may reserve Things for checkout just as you do a book. A listing of all kits is available in Minerva. By checking out a Thing you agree to the Borrowing and Use Guidelines.
Some items in our Library of Things are referred to as “Specialty Items”. Specialty items can only be checked out by our 18+ patrons due to legal and/or safety concerns. For a listing of these Specialty Items, see link below.
Let us know what else we should lend, share how you want to use an item, learn how to share your consumables and repair your items, find out where you can acquire items we don’t lend, or browse more of our community’s ideas at our registry. If an item does not circulate in a year, we give it to another library. Learn where else you can borrow items, why we have a Library of Things, how we support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how you can do so too, by exploring our videos at the bottom of the page. We want to help. Get in touch!"
https://curtislibrary.com/library-of-things/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #LibraryOfThingsMaine #LibrariesOfThings #MaineLibraries #BrunwickME #HolidayCooking #HomeRepairs #Crafting #LoT #LibraryOfThings #LibrariesRule!
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LIBRARY OF THINGS – Borrowing Beyond Books
"Obtain a Curtis Memorial Library card to borrow from our Library of Things. This collection can be browsed by category below or seen throughout our Nonfiction shelves. Oversize items can be fetched by staff and you may reserve Things for checkout just as you do a book. A listing of all kits is available in Minerva. By checking out a Thing you agree to the Borrowing and Use Guidelines.
Some items in our Library of Things are referred to as “Specialty Items”. Specialty items can only be checked out by our 18+ patrons due to legal and/or safety concerns. For a listing of these Specialty Items, see link below.
Let us know what else we should lend, share how you want to use an item, learn how to share your consumables and repair your items, find out where you can acquire items we don’t lend, or browse more of our community’s ideas at our registry. If an item does not circulate in a year, we give it to another library. Learn where else you can borrow items, why we have a Library of Things, how we support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how you can do so too, by exploring our videos at the bottom of the page. We want to help. Get in touch!"
https://curtislibrary.com/library-of-things/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #LibraryOfThingsMaine #LibrariesOfThings #MaineLibraries #BrunwickME #HolidayCooking #HomeRepairs #Crafting #LoT #LibraryOfThings #LibrariesRule!
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LIBRARY OF THINGS – Borrowing Beyond Books
"Obtain a Curtis Memorial Library card to borrow from our Library of Things. This collection can be browsed by category below or seen throughout our Nonfiction shelves. Oversize items can be fetched by staff and you may reserve Things for checkout just as you do a book. A listing of all kits is available in Minerva. By checking out a Thing you agree to the Borrowing and Use Guidelines.
Some items in our Library of Things are referred to as “Specialty Items”. Specialty items can only be checked out by our 18+ patrons due to legal and/or safety concerns. For a listing of these Specialty Items, see link below.
Let us know what else we should lend, share how you want to use an item, learn how to share your consumables and repair your items, find out where you can acquire items we don’t lend, or browse more of our community’s ideas at our registry. If an item does not circulate in a year, we give it to another library. Learn where else you can borrow items, why we have a Library of Things, how we support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how you can do so too, by exploring our videos at the bottom of the page. We want to help. Get in touch!"
https://curtislibrary.com/library-of-things/
#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #LibraryOfThingsMaine #LibrariesOfThings #MaineLibraries #BrunwickME #HolidayCooking #HomeRepairs #Crafting #LoT #LibraryOfThings #LibrariesRule!