THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, September 29, 2023 Page 7 Library unveils “Library of Things” promoting sustainability & community engagement T he Malden Public Library is excited to announce the grand opening of its groundbreaking “Library of Things,” a unique and sustainable initiative that empowers the community to reduce waste and conserve resources by borrowing a wide range of items rather than owning them. This initiative was initiated by the Malden Public Library and further supported by a generous grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) through the Sustainable Materials Recovery Grant program. The Library of Things concept is simple but revolutionary: Instead of buying and owning rarely used items, residents of Malden may now check them out with just a library card, encouraging a culture of reuse and resourcefulness. This innovative library extension promotes sustainability and provides residents access to an array of items they might need for various projects and activities. One prime example of how the Library of Things can help eliminate waste is the availability of a sewing machine. While sewing machines are incredibly useful for specifi c projects and help the environment in their own right, they often collect dust in the back of closets when not in use. By borrowing a sewing machine from the Library of Items from the Library of Things are available to loan to adult Malden residents with a library card in good standing. Each item can go out for two weeks at a time and cannot be renewed. Patrons can borrow a maximum of two items at a time. Holds must be placed one day prior to picking up the item. When borrowing an item for the fi rst time, patrons will be asked to sign a borrower’s agreement and waiver regarding use of items in the Library of Things. To place a hold, pick up an item, or for any questions, please visit or call the information desk. For a full list of items, or more information, visit https://maldenpubliclibrary.org/services/ library-of-things/ Information Librarian and Library of Things Project Coordinator Katie Walsh with Mayor Gary Christenson (photo courtesy of the City of Malden) Things, residents can complete their projects (ideally repairing clothing instead of throwing it out) without the need for longterm ownership, ultimately reducing clutter and environmental impact. Mayor Gary Christenson, who has been an advocate for sustainable initiatives in Malden, was there to experience this new service fi rsthand. “The Library of Things is a solid addition to our community, aligning perfectly with our goals of promoting sustainability and reducing waste,” he commented. “This resource will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of Malden residents and the environment.” The Sustainable Materials Recovery Grant from MassDEP has been instrumental in making the Library of Things a reality. This grant program provides funding to municipalities to support initiatives that maximize reuse, recycling and waste reduction, furthering Massachusetts’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The Library of Things off ers a diverse catalog of items beyond sewing machines: audio/visual Items, outdoor recreation, crafting, music, home improvement, technology and more. The service aims to make life in Malden more convenient and sustainable while fostering a sense of community. Malden Post 69 Seeks New Members A re you a veteran who is looking for a way to connect with other veterans, stay active, and give back to your community? If so, then the American Legion Post 69 in Malden is the place for you! We need your help to fulfi ll our commitments and are encouraging Veterans to join. We are committed to serving veterans and their families. We can help you open doors to benefi ts, off er health care assistance, employment, and other veteran programs. We also support youth programs in scouting, ROTC, and help young people learn the importance of education and service to their country. If you are not a Veteran and have family members that were or are a Veteran, we have a program for you -The Sons of the American Legion. The Sons hold their own events, but also support Post activities. If you are interested in joining the American Legion Post 69, please contact us at 781-3249570 or email us at americanlegion@gmail.com. We would be happy to welcome you into our family! By the way, Post 69 host’s a karaoke party every first and third Friday of the month. This is a great opportunity for veterans and the public to come together and have some fun. The party starts at 7:00 pm and ends Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma at 11:00 pm. There is no cover charge. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. We hope to see you there! Need a hall for your special event? The Schiavo Club, located at 71 Tileston Street, Everett is available for your Birthdays, Anniversaries, Sweet 16 parties and more? Call Dennis at (857) 249-7882 for details.
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