Zero Waste Tableware Lending Library
In 2022, this popular program provided service ware to 130 nonprofit and private gatherings, from sports banquets and weddings, to fundraisers and neighborhood potlucks.
In keeping with the mission of our organization to reduce the amount of waste produced by our community, Bainbridge Island Zero Waste maintains a lending library of durable tableware items. You may request an inventory spreadsheet by writing to any of the four volunteer Zero Waste librarians: Jane Martin, Susan Knell, Diane Landry or Wendy Jones.
When you write in, please include the following information, which we note on our reservation sheet:
- What your event is
- When it will take place
- Approximately how many will attend
Borrowers are expected to wash and dry all items before returning and to notify us of any breakage, missing pieces, or malfunctioning items.
This is a free service to the community; however, if you feel so inclined, the library gratefully accepts donations, which help support operations.
The lending library makes no pick-off or drop-off arrangements during the Rotary Auction collection and sale period. If your event falls during June 28-July 10, 2023, or within a week before or after, please contact us at least by June 21, 2023.
Here is a sample of our inventory, with approximate quantities in parentheses:
- glasses, various drinking (500), wine (270) and champagne (110)
- forks, various dinner (350) and dessert (380)
- knives, various (500)
- spoons, various tea (340) and table (340)
- plates, various dinner (340)/ dessert (150) and appetizer (200) – Corelle and other types
- bowls, various types (60)
- napkins, various (700)
- round/rectangular tablecloths, various solid colors and sizes (220)
- coffee makers
- water dispensers
- warming trays… and more
If you are interested in planning a “sustainable” wedding, consult this resource guide.
We do not purchase new items for the library, practicing our credo that reuse is better in creating less waste. In fact, many of our acquisitions have come from donations. We are always looking to add any pattern Corelle bowls (cereal size and smaller) and Corelle dessert and dinner plates. Please contact us if you have any you would like to donate.
If you have something else you think might be a possible addition, please let us know.
The loaning “library” is a fantastic idea! Thank you so much for all of your help borrowing items for our son’s wedding reception. Lots of people commented especially on the glass Mason jars. We bought black chalkboard labels and had those out for guests to put their names on their glasses. The bride, a graphic designer, made a nice sign that said, “Here is your glass for the evening.” Thank you again!