#Michigan: #LibraryOfThings

"Welcome to a new era of borrowing at the #WestlandPublicLibrary—where you can borrow experiences, hobbies, and tools just as easily as you borrow books.

What is the Library of Things?

"The Library of Things allows you to borrow physical objects for use at home or on the go. You now have access to a diverse collection of items that cater to your curiosity and interests. From tools to help your next household project to craft kits that awaken your artistic side, our collection is designed to inspire and enrich your life."

Who can check out Library of Things items?

"Library of Things items can be checked out by Westland residents age 18 and older."

Borrowing limits

"Eligible patrons may borrow a maximum of two items at any given time. Library of Things items have a two week loan period and cannot be renewed."

Items include: Board games, puzzles, sports equipment, outdoor recreation, tech accessories, digital tools, audio equipment, arts and crafts, gardening, ghost hunting, outdoor exploration, cooking and baking equipment, cleaning and organizing equipment, event supplies, hand tools, automotive tools, measurement and precision tools, and more!

FMI:
https://westlandlibrary.org/featured-collections/library-of-things/
#LibrariesRule #Libraries #LibrariesOfThings #SharingEconomy #SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #Degrowth #CircularEconomy

#MonroeCountyMI - Got a library card? You can check-out a free #GardenPlot in Monroe

by Susan Nolan Wisler, March 23, 2025

MONROE COUNTY — "Now that it's spring, it’s time to reserve your community garden plot. Monroe County has several options, including some plots that can be checked-out free with a library card.

Monroe County Library System

"'The #BedfordBranchLibrary and the #BlueBushBranchLibrary both have garden plots that patrons can utilize. It is very similar to borrowing a book, but you 'check-out' a garden plot for the whole growing season. You can find them in our online catalog,' said Barbra Krueger, who works in community outreach for the Monroe County Library System.

"The Bedford Branch, 8575 Jackman Road in #TemperanceMI, has 10 garden beds; four are still available. The Blue Bush Branch, 2210 Blue Bush Road in #MonroeMI, has four beds that are all still available.

[...]

"Today, Blue Bush offers gardeners use of #rainwater collection barrels, a #CompostBin and a #GardenShed, which was purchased by the Friends of the Frenchtown Area Library. Inside the shed are gloves, rakes, hoes and trowels. Blue Bush also has a #SeedLibrary."

Learn more:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/03/23/community-garden-plots-raised-beds-monroe-county-library-system-munson-park-st-mary-organic-garden/82563173007/
#Michigan #SolarPunkSunday #BuildingCommunity #CommunityGardens #FoodSecurity #LibrariesRule !

#Alabama: #Tuscaloosa #PublicLibrary to host second #RepairCafe

by Allen Smith Mar 2, 2025

"Tuscaloosa Public Library to host second Repair Cafe

"Do you miss wearing your favorite pair of old jeans or using an old household item?

"Tuscaloosa Public Library is hosting its second Repair Cafe on March 22 from noon to 3 p.m.

"Volunteers will have stations for different categories of items and will also be there to teach attendees how to repair some items themselves.

"Organizers are also hoping to save space in local landfills."

Source:
https://www.wvua23.com/news/tuscaloosa-public-library-to-host-2nd-repair-cafe/article_c31c1184-f7ec-11ef-b01b-2f32ceacc456.html
#RepairCafesAlabama #SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #FixIt

#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
https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/communities/st_francisville/west-feliciana-parish-library-launches-a-new-seed-library/article_d9f400fe-e8cb-11ef-8946-4b3a48ecf5de.html
#SeedLibrary #SeedSharing #SolarPunkSunday #BuildingCommunity #LibrariesRule! #SeedSharing #SeedExchange #Gardening #FoodSecurity

#Maine - Making the most of March with #ThompsonFreeLibrary

By Kim Brawn, Thompson Free Library, February 24, 2025

"March arrives with a built-in tension. The upbeat concept we hold in our minds versus an uncertain reality. Our hope is tinged with a steely resolve to muddle through. 'Winter is holding back and spring is pulling forward. Something holds and something pulls inside of us too,' wrote garden author Jean Hersey. Whether you’re ready to research a spring project or desperately need some escapist fare, the Thompson Free Library in #DoverFoxcroft is here to help you make it through — and even enjoy — this unpredictable month.

"Nothing heralds the coming of spring like our #SeedLibrary! We offer donated seeds from our community and various other donors. If you have extra seeds from previous years that you don’t need, please bring them in to share with your neighbors. If you’re interested in trying a new type of plant or flower in your garden this year, stop in and check out what we have to offer. Over the years we’ve had donations from Burpee, Fedco, Ripley Farms, Helios Horsepower Farms, Bob’s Hardware, and many, many patrons."

Source:
https://observer-me.com/2025/02/24/news/making-the-most-of-march-with-thompson-free-library/

Library website:
https://www.thompsonfreelibrary.org/
#SolarPunkSunday #SeedBanks #SeedLibrary #DoverFoxcroftMaine #SolarPunkSunday #BuildingCommunity #LibrariesRule! #SeedSharing #SeedExchange #Gardening #CommunityAgriculture #SeedSharing #HeirloomSeeds #MaineLibraries

Hey, I found something #Millennials *haven't* killed: libraries! They and #GenZ apparently visit their local libraries more than older folks.

Good, I like them way more than Hooters or even paper napkins.

https://theconversation.com/gen-z-and-millennials-have-an-unlikely-love-affair-with-their-local-libraries-220632 #library #libraries #LibrariesRock #LibrariesRule

As a mum of twins on a low income whose partner is a librarian, I have spent years telling anyone who will listen of the huge social and health value that libraries bring to communities beyond being a building full of books.

It’s great to see that finally financially quantified…and a bit proud it’s #UEA in #Norwich carrying out this research!

#SaveOurLibraries
#LibrariesRule

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/jul/07/study-finds-english-libraries-generate-at-least-34bn-in-yearly-value