Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)— Ever find yourself in need of a tool, but the cost of purchasing one that you may only need once or twice is holding you back? The new Park Forest Tool Lending Library is the answer to your dilemma.
The village is hosting an Open House at its new Tool Lending Library on Saturday, September 27. This allows residents to explore the facility and discover what it has to offer. Located in the Wetlands Discovery Center at 30 N. Orchard Drive, next to the Aqua Center, the library will be open year-round. It will be open each Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to noon.
The opening of the library has been a long-time goal of Carrie Malfeo, the village’s Sustainability Coordinator.
“By sharing tools, we’re reducing waste, saving money, and giving residents the opportunity to take pride in their homes and yards. A tool library is a small idea that can create significant change.”
Residents may visit the Open House to learn more about the library. They can discover how they might utilize it now and in the future. Information about volunteering at the library is also available.
How the Tool Lending Library Works
There is no charge to check out a tool from the Tool Lending Library. Borrowers can use the tool for a week before returning it. Alternatively, they can arrange for a one-time extension if needed.
To check out a tool, the borrower must sign an agreement that they understand the terms. This includes knowledge of safely operating the tool and holding the village harmless for any injuries that may occur while using the tool. The borrower must be a resident of Park Forest over the age of 18. They must provide a valid driver’s license or state ID, as well as proof of their address, such as a utility bill.
Tools Available to Borrow
A wide array of tools is available. These include gardening tools, painting equipment, and tools for automotive and bicycle repair. Power tools, electrical cords and accessories, plumbing tools, and cleaning tools, such as carpet cleaners and shop vacuums, are also available.
An inventory of the library’s tools is available on the village website. The Park Forest Sustainability Office and Environment Commission purchased many of the tools. Organizers expect that the inventory will grow as new contributions and donations are made.
Organized and Staffed by Volunteers
The Tool Lending Library is staffed by volunteers who donate their time. This enables the tools to be accessed and utilized by others within the community.
A major obstacle has been finding a sufficient number of volunteers to staff the library on a weekly basis. Malfeo stated that with a core contingent of volunteers on board, she is now confident that the project will be a success.
“This is really about neighbors helping neighbors,” Malfeo said.
