The Sunshine Coast Tool Library
We’re excited to be launching the Sunshine Coast Tool Library, full of equipment and tools for farming, gardening, food preservation, building, and creating.
Public Launch: July 2023
(soft opening for members of One Straw Society: March 2023)
What is a tool library?
Part of a broader tool sharing movement, the tool library will offer community access to tools, including ones that are too large for storing privately, only rarely used, or costly to purchase
What's the benefit?
By sharing tools, we reduce cost-related barriers to farming, food preservation and empower folks in their sustainability endeavours. We encourage community sharing, reducing our environmental impact and reducing waste. Plus, you don’t have to store these items yourself, while still being able to use them!
How does it work?
We’re still ironing out the nitty gritty of exactly how the tool library will work, but generally by joining as a member of the tool library, you will be able to lend out tools for a set amount of time. We take care of the maintenance, storage, and can share tips on how to use the items!
How can I join?
The Tool Library is available to members of One Straw Society for a “soft opening” spring 2023. It will be public in July, 2023. Become a member of One Straw Society or follow us on Instagram & Facebook to get updates.
We are looking for folks who want to get involved!
Are you a putterer with time and skills to contribute? Do you own food or farming equipment you would like to pass on to us? (You still get to use it!) Do you know how to fix and do tool maintenance? We want to hear from you.
The Details
Our focus is on farm/garden and food preservation at first, but as word spreads, and as support grows, the library will grow to include the every-day basics.
Donate your good quality tools and equipment, get a tax receipt, and you can use them any time you want, anyway (but then, so can all your friends and neighbours)! Got some tools or equipment you’d like to share?
The Focus
At first, our focus is on increasing food production locally, minimizing food waste, and providing equal access to otherwise unaffordable tools for community members. The Tool Library pairs with ongoing workshops to teach safety, nutrition, and use. In this rural, under-resourced area, a Tool Library will be empowering in many ways, with many opportunities for partnerships (public libraries, the “Repair Cafe”, etc.), tool donations, learning, and volunteering.
We just completed construction on the first small storage building for Phase 1 of the Tool Library – the Tiny Barn at One Tiny Farm.
Stage 1 (Summer 2022 - Done)
Overview, plan, secure startup funding, secure/build a facility
Stage 2 (Fall 2022 - Done)
Gather: wish list from community members, donated tools, & a volunteer team
Stage 3 (Winter 2022)
Build admin infrastructure – sign out systems, online inventory, website, resources, repair and maintenance plans and teams
Stage 4 (Spring 2023)
Open the door!
