Released For Publication - December 8, 2022
The Guelph Tool Library to launch pop-up Circular Store under the COIL Activate Accelerator.
The Guelph Tool Library, a member-based lending library with over 1000 tools and appliances, has been accepted in to the Circular Opportunity Innovation Launchpad (COIL) Accelerator Cohort 3. The grant program is supporting small businesses and organizations across Southern Ontario as they work to increase their sustainable, circular, and regenerative practices.
The Guelph Tool Library has chosen to open the GTL Circular Store, which will serve as a thrift store and mini recycling centre. With plans to open their doors to the public in early 2023, the organization has launched their first Wish-List for targeted item collection, which includes a selection of gently used in-season clothing, art and craft supplies, tools, small appliances, and knick-knacks. A more detailed list of accepted and prohibited goods can be found on their website and social media.
At this time, donations can be brought to the tool library in Old Quebec Street during regular hours, and when the shop opens in mid-January, donations can be brought there.
“Working for the Circular Fashion Festival this fall, the community reaction was so positive, and we started looking for ways to keep that energy up long-term”
, Circular Store coordinator Megan Clarke states.
“Thrifting has always been a passion for me, so getting to become part of this industry is really exciting”.
Megan Clarke joined the Guelph Tool Library team in September of this year to help collect and sort clothing for Guelph’s Largest Free Clothing Swap, which collected over 8,200 items.
The Circular Store will run their pilot program until the end of April, but hopes to continue the project long-term if they can source additional funding or make the store self-sustaining. The pop-up location will be just across the hall from the tool library, inside of Old Quebec Street Shoppes. They aim to collect and rehome, repurpose, or recycle 10,000 items during their pop-up. A launch event is slated for mid-February, which will involve workshops, a craft night, and a swapping event.
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