Circular Economy Spotlight: Seattle Reconomy
The Repair Bank is proud to be connected with many organizations in Washington that are similarly focused toward the circular economy of reuse, repair, and recycling. One of those organizations is Seattle REconomy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability and community through access to tools, classes, and reuse resources. Their mission is to reduce the Seattle community's environmental footprint and increase climate resilience by encouraging reuse and sharing.
Tool Libraries: Empowering DIY
Seattle REconomy operates two tool libraries in Northeast Seattle and Shoreline, offering over 10,000 tools for borrowing. These libraries provide community members with access to a wide range of tools, from saws and drills to mowers and pressure washers, enabling them to undertake various projects without the need to purchase equipment.
The resources, classes, and events hosted by the libraries are available to everyone regardless of where they live or how much they can pay.
Workshops & Classes: Building Skills Together
A friendly welcome at the Shoreline Library
Beyond tool lending, Seattle REconomy offers classes and workshops covering topics like gardening, woodworking, and home energy improvements. These educational opportunities are designed to enhance community members' self-reliance and resilience, fostering a sense of mutual support.
Both locations also house Bike Shacks: places for members to work on their bikes with the help and knowledge of a friendly volunteer bike mechanic. Bike repair tools are available for use alongside a repair work stand, with parts available for purchase priced at what members can afford.
More Than Just Tools!
In addition to the tools available for your next DIY project, the Shoreline Library also houses the ReUse Materials Store, a second-use building materials shop. Spare materials such as flooring, ceramic tiles, woodworking supplies, and many DIY consumables normally destined for the landfill have been diverted here and are available for purchase on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Looking to grow something instead of building or repairing? Spring has sprung and the tool libraries are here to help! Each library also maintains a seed library that is part of the Washington State Seed Library Network. Members can use (or “borrow”) seeds from the libraries for free, even if it’s their first experience with gardening! They only ask that seeds are “returned” at the end of the growing season. (Visit the seed library to learn how that works if you’re unfamiliar!)
Upcoming Event: Tool & Bike Sale
If you’re the type of DIY’er who needs more tools at the ready in your garage, shed, or home workbench, you’re in luck!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 31st, for the Shoreline Tool Library tool sale!
More than just tools, bikes will also be available for purchase if you’re looking to upgrade your ride, and a bake sale to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Seattle ReCreative is partnering in this event and will be present with arts and crafts supplies for purchase if you’re looking to restock your craft closet.
The event is sponsored by BECU and all proceeds will benefit the Seattle REconomy community and both tool library locations.
Get Involved, Join the Movement
Seattle REconomy welcomes volunteers and donors to support their mission. Opportunities include assisting at tool libraries, participating in workshops, and contributing to the organization's growth. Their comprehensive approach to sustainability through tool sharing, education, and community engagement serves as a model for building resilient and environmentally conscious communities and the Repair Bank is proud to count them as a partner.
For more information, visit their official website.
See you at Furniture Repair Bank (or the Tool Library)!
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