The Brunswick Tool Library has bought an electric cargo bike for tool deliveries thanks to a Zero Emissions Commercial Sector Innovator Fund (CSIF) grant by the Department of Transport and Planning.
Deliveries of Library tools throughout the community used to be by fossil fuel motor vehicle, but they’re now delivered by e-cargo bike with tools carried in the rear carrier.
Liz Irvin, volunteer at the Tool Library, cites the reasons for delivering by e-bike:
“The main values of the Brunswick Tool Library focus on reducing our environmental impact through repairing, sharing and learning new skills.”
“Making deliveries using our new e-cargo bike allows us to align with those values in another part of our operations.”
“It’s so easy and convenient to just jump on the bike instead of having to book a car to make a delivery.”
We love being based in Merri-bek where the existing cycling infrastructure is among the best in Melbourne, and there is a commitment to build more. Having dedicated cycling lanes helps us make deliveries with our bike and keeps us connected to our members and the broader community.”
All the tools you need
Brunswick Tool Library is a volunteer run, non-profit with over 1500 tools for hire with a modest annual membership free.
You can hire everything from welding and sewing machines to garden mulchers and hand planes. Sharing resources within the community reduces landfill, ensures everyone in our community has access to tools, brings people together, and develops DIY skills in the community.
The Library also runs skill-sharing workshops several times a year.
It operates out of the basement of the East Brunswick Village carpark at 127 Nicholson Street on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, and through twice monthly pop-up market stalls at Fawkner Food Bowls.
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