Readers will soon be no longer the only users of the library.
As of next weekend, the Cochrane Public Library will be renting out more than just books and games but a whole assortment of construction tools.
Everything from simple hand and power tools to larger, more expensive equipment like generators will be available to rent - all you need is a valid library card and to be over 18 years of age.
“Recycling, sharing economy in a more sustainable environment - all of those things are becoming more valued,” Karan Drok, community outreach and program librarian said on the growing popularity of tool libraries in North America.
“They’re also cost effective, residents of a community can share resources. It can also encourage and foster relationships between different groups of people. That’s just some of the thinking behind the collection we started here.”
Drok said it will be a great way for those looking to use tools for a one-time project or for those who are constrained by the cost of all-out buying tools.
“Apparently people will purchase tools and then return them to the store saying they’re defective and the stores aren’t able to sell defective tools – so they’re really trying to avoid that,” Drok said. “This way, people aren’t forced to make a purchase that they’re not prepared to make in the long run.”
So far, 41 new tools purchased from the Cochrane Canadian Tire – a partner in the initiative – are set to be available for rent.
“We worked with the library to identify a bunch of tools that they and we feel would be most popular. So that’s how it’s going to start,” said Chris Birch, general manager at Canadian Tire. “There’s several different things there. And then we’re just going to work with them over the coming weeks and months to identify any gaps if there are any.”
The launch of the program will be April 21 at 2 to 3 p.m. Following the launch, tools will be available to rent for up to seven days, details on renting policies are still being worked out by the library staff.
