#borrowdontbuy — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #borrowdontbuy, aggregated by home.social.
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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 !
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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 !
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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 !
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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 !
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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 !
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"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
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"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
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"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
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"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
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"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
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#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 -
#WellingtonNZ - Newtown #ToolLibrary
"Why buy and store tools when we can share!
#ToolLibraries work just like any other library. You become a member and then you can borrow tools. Tools are expensive, and there are many privately owned tools in our community that only get used once in a while. But, if we collectively own and share tools we can save money and the planet while building community. How awesome is that?
The team behind #NTL are all volunteers. We’re from lots of different backgrounds, but share the same passion to build community, and to share skills and resources.
#NewtownToolLibrary is a lending library for tools of all sorts. We have a growing collection of second hand and new tools (donations welcome) available for lending to members. The Tool Library is a project of the Newtown #CommunityCentre, is run by volunteers and is located in neat little nook at 9 Constable Street, Newtown!
Membership is $30 for a year or $20 for 6 months, or;
If you are a #WellingtonTimebank member, you can pay with 2-timecredits.
Our aim is to keep the Tool Library as accessible as possible while still having a small income to cover tool maintenance, repairs and new tools.
Once you are member, there are no charges to borrow tools."
FMI:
https://www.newtowncommunity.org.nz/newtown-tool-library#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy
#Aotearoa #ToolLibraries #NewZealandToolLibraries #AotearoaToolLibraries -
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
-
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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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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Well, saving money is a good reason for #NoBuy practices. But even better -- keeping things out of the landfills! This is a trend we ALL need to see more of! For whatever reason one chooses not to buy, I'm glad to see it catching on!
How the '#NoBuy2025' trend could help you get your budget on track this year
Ivana Pino, July 21, 2025
Excerpt: "Many of those who take on the challenge start by creating a list of rules for themselves that align with their lifestyles. This could include hard rules such as 'no new clothes whatsoever' or 'no new technology,' as well as rules that limit the frequency of certain purchases, such as 'yes to takeout once per month' or 'yes to one nail appointment every two weeks.'
"Others have posted online about having a 'low buy' year, which means they’re limiting the amount of purchases they’re making, rather than cutting out non-essential spending altogether."
#SolarPunkSunday #Degrowth #RepairReuseRecycle #RightToRepair #VisibleMending #BorrowDontBuy #LibraryOfThings #FixDontBuy #FixIt #DIY #RepairCafes
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This new community electric car took it's first trip in the Llandrindod carnival parade earlier this month. 🎉💃
Llandrindod Transition and Tripto Car Club worked together to raise funds and public support for the project. Public transport in their part of mid-Wales is limited - now people can now join the car club and borrow for trips without having to own their own vehicle.
It's one of three community cars Tripto look after in the area - and interest is certainly growing: "More and more people are feeling empowered in the fight against climate change and air pollution by driving one of our shared electric vehicles."
The solutions we need aren't just about individuals making different choices - there's lots to be done to give people new alternatives in the first place.
Well done to everyone at Llandrindod Transition and Tripto for making the idea a reality and opening up access to greener travel in your area!
#carclub #greentravel #EVcar #electriccar #Llandrindod #transitiontown #communityaction #communitycar #borrowdontbuy #Walesclimateaction