eupolicy.social is one of the many independent Mastodon servers you can use to participate in the fediverse.
This Mastodon server is a friendly and respectful discussion space for people working in areas related to EU policy. When you request to create an account, please tell us something about you.

Server stats:

215
active users

#librariesrule

0 posts0 participants0 posts today

How to find a #LibraryOfThings in the USA via #ThePeoplesHub

"We have listed some here below. You can search online, contact your local library, or ask your community organization.

- Ann Arbor District Library, MI: This library has a wide variety of items available for loan, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.

- Brooklyn Public Library, NY: Collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- City of Hope Library of Things, CA: Medical equipment borrowed for free. By patients and their families.

- Durham Tool Library, NC: Collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- Emerald City Libraries, WA: Collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- Interfaith Community Services, MA: Collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free by low-income families.

- Little Free Library, USA: This organization has a network of over 90,000 Little Free Libraries located in communities all over the USA. These libraries are free to use and they offer a variety of books, magazines, and other materials.

- Portland Tool Library, OR: Collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- Recommended Reading Library, PA: Has a collection of books, magazines, and other materials borrowed for free.

- San Francisco Public Library, CA: Collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- Seattle Tool Library, WA: Has a collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- Trinity Tool Library, CT: This library has a collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free.

- University of California, Berkeley, CA: This university has a collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free by students, staff, and faculty.

- University of Washington, WA: This university has a collection of tools and equipment borrowed for free by students, staff, and faculty.

"This is just a small sample of the many Libraries of Things that are available in the USA.

"Libraries of Things are a great way to reduce waste, encourage sharing, and access new things. If you are looking for a way to be more ethical, sustainable and to save money, do consider using one.

"Here are some additional details about the movement in the USA:

"The Library of Things movement is growing rapidly in the USA. In the past few years, there has been a surge in the number of Libraries of Things opening up across the country. This is due in part to the growing awareness of the environmental and enterprising financial benefits of sharing resources, and instead of it dividing the people, it brings people together whatever political persuasion.

"Libraries of Things are not just for libraries anymore. In addition to traditional libraries, many other types of organizations are now offering these services. This includes community centers, businesses, and even schools.

"The types of items available at Libraries of Things are also expanding. In addition to traditional tools and equipment, many Libraries of Things now offer a wide variety of other items, such as musical instruments, camping gear, and even party supplies.

"The movement is a great example of how people are coming together to find more sustainable and affordable ways to live. By sharing resources, we can all reduce our impact on the environment, save money and help our community thrive."

thepeopleshub.org/library-of-t

The Peoples HubLibrary of Things - The Peoples HubLibrary of Things are collections of physical objects that people can borrow instead of buying. No politics just helping fellow Americans

#LibraryOfThings #Ireland

"Library of Things are a growing trend in both the UK and Ireland. These collections of physical objects allow people to borrow instead of buy, which can help to reduce waste and encourage sharing.

"There are now over 20 Library of Things in Ireland, and the number is growing rapidly. Libraries of Things are located in a variety of settings, including libraries, community centers, and even schools.

"The most popular items at Libraries of Things are tools and equipment, followed by games and toys. Library of Things are most popular in urban areas, but they are also starting to become more common in rural areas.

"Libraries of Things are often funded by grants or donations, and they are staffed by volunteers.

Community Spirit

"Community spirit is a strong tradition in Ireland. People are often willing to help out their neighbors and their community. This is evident in the many community-based organizations that exist in Ireland, such as sports clubs, volunteer groups, and community centers.

"Community spirit is important for a number of reasons. It can help to build a sense of belonging and community, it can provide support and resources to those in need, and it can help to make a community a more enjoyable place to live.

"There are many ways to get involved in community spirit in Ireland. You can volunteer your time to a local organization, donate to a worthy cause, or simply get to know your neighbors.

The Benefits of Library of Things and Community Spirit in Ireland

"Library of Things and community spirit have a number of benefits, including:

- Reduced waste: When people borrow instead of buy, they reduce the amount of waste that is produced.
- Encouraged sharing: Libraries of Things and community spirit encourage people to share resources, which can help to build community and reduce costs.
- Access to new things: Libraries of Things and community spirit give people access to new things that they might not otherwise be able to afford or have space for.
- Increased sense of belonging: Libraries of Things and community spirit can help people feel more connected to their community and their neighbors.
- Reduced social isolation: Libraries of Things and community spirit can help people connect with others and reduce social isolation.
- Improved mental and physical health: Libraries of Things and community spirit can help improve mental and physical health by providing opportunities for social interaction, exercise, and relaxation.

Library of Things communities in Ireland:

- #DublinIreland #ToolLibrary: This library has a wide variety of tools and equipment available for loan, including power tools, hand tools, and gardening tools.
- Library of Things, #GalwayIreland: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including sewing machines, musical instruments, and camping gear.
- #LimerickIreland Library of Things: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.
- #CorkCityIreland Library of Things: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.
- #WexfordIreland Library of Things: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.
- #BelfastIreland Tool Library: This library has a collection of items such as DIY equipment and tools.
- #KilkennyIreland Library of Things: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.
- #WaterfordIreland Library of Things: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.
- #DundalkIreland Library of Things: This library has a collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including tools, musical instruments, and camping gear.

"This is just a small sample of the many Libraries of Things that are available in Ireland. If you are interested in finding a Library of Things near you, you can search online or contact your local library or community center."

FMI:
thepeopleshub.org/library-of-t

The Peoples HubLibrary of Things Ireland - The Peoples HubThere are now over 20 Library of Things in Ireland. They have collection of items that can be borrowed for free, including sewing machines!

#TuscaloosaPublicLibrary To Host #RepairCafe

The #Tuscaloosa Public Library will once again host its Repair Cafe on Saturday, July 12.

by Ryan Phillips, Posted Thu, Jun 26, 2025

"The event will be held from noon until 3 p.m., with the first installment earlier this year giving nearly 300 patrons the chance to learn how to repair electronics, small appliances, clothing, jewelry, furniture, #bicycles, and more.

"Volunteers will provide their time and repair skills to diagnose and fix broken household items, sharing their knowledge with patrons so they too can become repairers.

"Past Repair Cafes have served 255 people, with volunteers attempting 96 repairs so far, with 53 completed and 20 partly completed, marking a success rate of 76%.

"The library says 260 pounds of trash have been saved from the landfill, with volunteers fixing scooters, cuckoo clocks, and even a Coleman camp stove.

"The event will also feature a #TakeItApartTable where children can experiment by taking apart items like laptops and coffee makers."

Source:
patch.com/alabama/tuscaloosa/t

#SolarPunkSunday #RepairCafesAlabama #LibrariesRule! #FixIt #RepairCafes #RepairReuseRecycle #RepairReuse

Patch · Tuscaloosa Public Library To Host Repair Cafe Next MonthBy Ryan Phillips

[Video] Some #NJ libraries now offer a ‘#LibraryOfThings

February 2024

Excerpt: "[W]e're used to checking out a trove of books when we head to the library.

"But visit a local branch and you'll find you can take out so much more.

"Libraries of things are the new trend where card holders can check out a range of goods from small appliances to a power washer.

"A little something for everyone.

Ted Goldberg has the story.

We have a power washer.

Who would have thought you could borrow a power washer from a public library?

"The #HobokenPublicLibrary has books.

"But you probably knew that there were other stuff might surprise you.

"We have everything from an OG Sega Genesis video game to one of our very popular items, electric knife sharpener.

"Their library of things has all sorts of inventory that might come in handy, like a stud finder or a cornhole set."

pbs.org/video/new-jersey-libra

www.pbs.orgNJ Spotlight News | Some NJ libraries now offer a ‘library of things’ | Season 2024Power washers, knife sharpeners, snowshoes and more

#PelhamAlabama - Pelham Public #Library introduces Library of Things

Published 3:04 pm Monday, April 28, 2025
By Dave Domescik

"The Pelham Public Library is offering a new option for patrons who are looking for something other than a new book to read.

"The Library of Things, introduced in April, is available for adult patrons in good standing who have no overdue or lost items and no fines over $10. A Facebook post described some of the items available to patrons.

" 'Need a tool for a quick fix? Want to pump up balloons for a party? Planning a game night? Need a Chromebook or mobile hotspot for work or school? We’ve got you covered,' the post read.

"The new project encourages resource sharing and sustainability, helping the Pelham community save money and reduce waste by providing items like board games, STEM kits, tool sets and tech items. The Library of Things display is near the front desk of the Pelham Public Library on the first floor. Patrons can pick up the display case of the desired item and bring it to the Circulation Desk, where a staff member will then retrieve the real item from the storage shelf in the library.

"Melanie Carden, Pelham Public Library’s library supervisor, explained that the inspiration to launch the Library of Things came from public libraries across the country offering a similar option. These libraries could include anything from tools, electronics, recreational equipment and more.

" 'After looking around at some items we already owned at Pelham Public Library, we wanted to jump on the bandwagon,' Carden said. 'It all started with our #BoardGames. Our large collection of board games was previously used for game nights and events at the library in years past, but attendance had since tapered off. Our solution was to allow patrons to enjoy these items in the comfort of their own home.'

"More than 80 items in the Library of Things were already previously owned by the Pelham Public Library, but donations to the new entity are encouraged.

" 'We hope that our Library of Things, much like our regular library collection, promotes #sustainability by encouraging sharing and the ability to try items before you buy,' Carden said. 'If you need a tool set for a one-time project, we have one for you. If you have friends coming over for game night but don’t want to spend a lot of money on new games, you can put a game on hold to pick up before the event.'

"According to Carden, the Library of Things is based on the 'lend instead of buy' principle and reduces the environmental impact of #OverConsumption. Furthermore, the new option promotes community belonging and mutual learning. Carden briefly described some of the most popular and unique items currently available at the Library of Things.

" 'Our most popular items so far have been the kid-friendly board games, such as Battleship, Guess Who? and Candyland,' Carden said. 'The unique items range from a floppy disk reader to a portable electric balloon pump.'

"To browse the collection in the Library of Things, visit Tinyurl.com/PelhamLOT. Those interested in donating to the Library of Things can email Carden at mcarden@pelhamalabama.gov or call the library at 205-620-6418."

shelbycountyreporter.com/2025/

Archived version:
archive.ph/YYHWy

Shelby County Reporter · Pelham Public Library introduces Library of Things - Shelby County ReporterThe Pelham Public Library is offering a new option for patrons who are looking for something other than a new book to read.

#WatertownMA - Watertown's "#LibraryOfThings" offers creative #community #workspace. Here's a look inside.

Story by Jordyn Jagolinzer

"The library in Watertown, Massachusetts is providing the tools and a space for people to get creative and learn new skills.

" 'A lot of libraries have started a 'library of things' collection, but they don't have necessarily a space to allow people to just make and create and build community,' Watertown Public Library director Kim Hewitt said. 'We have a big Hatch-maker space and that was one of the first in the area.'

"The 'Hatch' facility on Summer Street is right around the block from the main library. The workshop is stocked with tools, materials and expertise for everyone to learn in a venue that fosters #creativity.

"We have scraps of material to play around with, the #SewingMachines, or create something, #JewelryMaking. It doesn't have to be prescriptive. You can go there and see what appeals to you," Hewitt said.

"The #Hatchspace is a standout amongst similar programs in Massachusetts, and it just celebrated it's tenth birthday. It has #ButtonMakers, #LaserCutters, and even #3DPrinters.

"Talented expert volunteers are on hand to assist patrons with their projects, which is how Seth Deitch first started making things in the space.

" 'We're very lucky to have the people that we have who volunteer here. Many of them are extremely talented. Lots of people with advanced degrees,' Deitch said.

"Hatch also offers workshops that more and more people in the community are getting involved in.

" 'It's nice having a space for the entire community that's free to come to and work at,' Deitch said. 'Nowadays, people spend a lot of their time staring at screens, not enough working with their hands.'

"The best part is, anyone in the state can get in on the fun.

" 'As long as you're a #Massachusetts resident, you can get a library card at the #WatertownPubliclibrary,' said Ran Cronin, the library's access services supervisor.

"The library is hoping to expand the Hatch space. It also has one of the largest English language-learning programs, called #ProjectLiteracy, which serves 900 students per year."

Source:
msn.com/en-us/news/us/watertow

www.msn.comMSN

#Louisiana: #WestFelicianaParish #Library launches a new #SeedLibrary

Feb 18, 2025

"Just in time for spring planting, the West Feliciana Parish Library announces the launch of its Seed Library — a community-driven initiative designed to make gardening accessible to everyone.

"The Seed Library allows patrons to 'borrow' seeds to grow their own food, flowers and herbs. Interested gardeners can take home seeds, plant them, enjoy the harvest, and, if possible, return seeds at the end of the season to keep the cycle going.

"This project was made possible through an #LSU #AgCenter #HealthyCommunitiesGrant and is maintained in partnership with the LSU AgCenter's West Feliciana Parish Extension Office.

"'Our goal is to empower our community with the ability to grow fresh, healthy food while promoting #biodiversity and #SelfReliance,' said Molly Porter, librarian. 'By participating, you're not just growing plants — you’re growing a stronger, more resilient community.'

How to get seeds from the library:

- Sign up: Fill out a Seed Library Patron Form and bring it to the circulation desk.
- Pick your seeds: Choose from a variety of seeds that thrive in the local climate. Three per week limit.
- Log your choices: Record the seeds you take in the binder to help track demand and replenish stock.
- Plant and enjoy: Take the seeds home, plant and watch them grow.
- Return seeds, if you can: If you save seeds from your harvest, bring some back to the library to share with others.

"Throughout the growing season, the library will offer workshops on gardening basics, seed saving and more."

For details, visit www.wfplibrary.org/seeds or stop by the library to get started or contact (225) 245-3752, or mporter@wfplibrary.org
theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/ne
#SeedLibrary #SeedSharing #SolarPunkSunday #BuildingCommunity #LibrariesRule! #SeedSharing #SeedExchange #Gardening #FoodSecurity

The AdvocateWest Feliciana Parish Library launches a new seed libraryJust in time for spring planting, the West Feliciana Parish Library announces the launch of its Seed Library — a community-driven initiative designed to make gardening accessible to everyone.