Is the storage space in your home overflowing? Many of us wish our basement or garage was less cluttered, more spacious, and more efficient. But when it’s time for a new project, sport, or read, we tend to run out and buy tools, sports equipment, and books when we could borrow or share instead. Renting or borrowing is a great alternative to buying expensive household tools used infrequently, a good idea when trying a new sport, and a great resource for books, movies and other media.
By borrowing and sharing instead of buying, you’ll spend less money, keep your home organized, and simplify your life. Before buying new consider:
• Borrowing or sharing tools with neighbors including ladders, air compressors and pressure washers.
• Asking friends or trying a secondhand store for used sports equipment.
• When hosting a party, ask guests to bring tables and chairs (even dishes and glasses), or rent from a party rental shop.
• Using your local library for books, movies and more! For more information, visit the Carver County Library.
Lending Libraries
Lending libraries are popping up throughout North America, offering members no-cost or low-cost access to home and garden tools, kitchen tools, books, toys and games, sewing equipment, and other material goods that, for a variety of reasons, may not be practical for a household to buy and maintain.
The SouthWest Metro Lending Library is a non-profit that offers affordable access to a wide range of items, tools, resources, and skills. They also provide guidance on how to use these resources in a secure and supportive environment.
They envision a future where every member of the community has access to the resources necessary to shape and sustain the lives they envision. By offering affordable access to items, tools, resources, skills, and makerspace, they empower individuals to enhance their homes, express creativity through learning, sharing and caring which will foster a more resilient community.
The Minnesota Tool Library is a cooperative, volunteer-driven nonprofit that advocates for access over ownership. They believe you don’t need to privately own costly tools that clutter cupboards, basements and garages... it's a waste of space, money and resources that could be better utilized by building in community.
Other Local Rental Opportunities
