Zero Waste Tableware Lending Library
With only three volunteers handling all requests, we are reaching out to see if any of you have an interest in becoming a tableware lending librarian. Some handy attributes include
- attention to detail (reading and filling in a simple spreadsheet to make sure orders don’t overlap)
- free time and flexibility (mutually agreed-upon meeting times to preview, check-out and return)
- enthusiasm for reuse and supporting community events (meetings, weddings, memorials services, celebrations) to happen in a greener way
- because of LL location, proximity to central BI a plus
If this sounds up your alley, please email Jane Martin, who will show you the library in person and explain the procedures. Then you can decide if you would like to be mentored and determine after a couple check-outs if this position is right for you. Thank you for considering!
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 for use by island residents and/or island events. You may request an inventory spreadsheet by writing to any of the three volunteer Zero Waste librarians: Jane Martin, Diane Landry, and/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, the library gratefully accepts financial donations, which help support operations.
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), Corelle dessert and dinner plates, and clear glass water/wine carafes. 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.
Here is a sample of our inventory:
- glasses: wine, champagne and drinking
- utensils of various patterns: forks, knives and spoons
- serving utensils: big spoons and forks, tongs, and cake/pie servers
- plates: various dinner, dessert and appetizer – Corelle and other types
- bowls: serving and individual-sized
- napkins, various
- tablecloths: various sizes, shapes and colors
- coffee makers & water dispensers
- warming trays
- vases and candle holders…and more
If you are interested in planning a “sustainable” wedding, consult this resource guide.
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!