Starting July 11, the Elizabeth Taber Library in Marion will be lending out adult bicycles to library cardholders to enjoy for the day as part of its summer program emphasizing the importance of health and wellness.
Library patrons age 18 and over can present their library card with driver’s license and borrow a bicycle, along with helmet, for a same-day checkout/return throughout the remainder of the summer.
Library Director Elisabeth “Libby” O’Neill said the library was looking for a way to tie in the summer reading program’s theme of health and wellness with adult library patrons and, with the donation of five adult bikes from Tabor Academy, the lend-a-bike program seemed like the obvious idea.
“A lot of libraries are starting to check out a lot of materials that are not just books,” said O’Neill. “We thought this would be a fun thing to do over the summer.”
The library will start with checking out three bikes to get a feel for the popularity of the program. From there, O’Neill might decide to add the additional two bikes to accommodate patrons using the program.
“This is a great opportunity also for visitors,” said O’Neill. “Anyone can get a library card, so visitors would be able to also have the opportunity to check out a bike.”
The rules require the patron to sign a waiver, and the bike must be returned the same day as it is checked out, or else face a $1 an hour late fee. But as the program unfolds, said O’Neill, the details could change.
The bikes are pretty basic, said O’Neill, and some are equipped with baskets.
“I have always loved bike riding,” O’Neill said. “And what a way to tie in the theme of the summer reading program!”
She hopes the program is one that will cater to the community, its needs, and be a fun and exciting way to keep the library as a community focal point.
“I’ve been wanting to do a program like this for a long time,” said O’Neill. It’s another reason to keep libraries relevant beyond just checking out books.
The library is still seeking adult helmets and bike locks for this program. To donate, or for more information about the bike lending program, you can stop in or call the library staff at 508-748-1252.
By Jean Perry
