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Borrow Don't Buy

Alternate Libraries of Buffalo, NY

Lending Library of Things

  • Erie County's "Lending Library of Things" is not a physical library itself, but is instead a county-wide program that may already exist within your local library! A wide range of items are offered across the branches (with the opportunity for inter-library loans!), from car-care and energy saving essentials to recreational items such as instruments and projectors.

Buffalo Toy Library - 2929 Main Street, Buffalo NY 14214

  • An official member of the USA Toy Library Association, the Buffalo Toy Library provides families the opportunity to rent toys, games, and other forms of entertainment free of charge. The library is open 3 days a week with multiple budget-friendly subscription options to suit your family's needs.

The Tool Library - 2626 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214

  • Since 2011, the Tool Library has provided residents of WNY access to thousands of tools and educational materials, preventing members from having to purchase an expensive piece of equipment they'll likely only use once.
  • Dare to Repair Cafe - Check out a list of upcoming events on The Tool Library webpage. Erie County will be sponsoring an Earth Day Dare to Repair Cafe event on April 20th.

NYS Digital Fair Repair Act

  • Relates to the sale of digital electronic equipment that is manufactured and first sold or used in New York on or after July 1, 2023. It requires original equipment manufacturers to provide diagnostic and repair information and establish training and certification programs for independent repair providers and offer them parts needed for repair.
  • The goal of this is to make it easier to repair items, rather then needing to trash them and buy new.
  

NYS Website on Repair and Reuse

Check out NYS Department of Environmental Conservation's website to learn more about repair and reuse of what you already own.

 Remember: 

  1. Reduce what you purchase. Say "no" to single-use items when possible and acquire items second-hand that you might need.
  2. Reuse what you own. Give away things you no longer need to others who can use them.
  3. Recycle what is no longer usable, so it can be turned into something new. Keep items out of landfills.
  
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