In Colorado, cycling is a popular means of commuting, exercise and leisure. However, not all communities have equal access to bicycles. Located in an urban industrial area down the road from a light rail station, Anythink Commerce City is an ideal location to address what is known as the first mile/last mile transit issue, where a traveler’s first and last commuting miles can create a barrier to using public transit.

Anythink’s fleet of bicycles were donated by the now-closed Denver B-Cycle rideshare program, with assistance from the Northeast Transportation Connections. Anythink rewrapped the bicycles for library branding. Each bicycle comes with a basket, helmet and lock. Because of the lengthy check-out time, customers are encouraged to use the bicycles for both transportation and health. Thanks to a donation from the City of Commerce City, the bicycles are housed on-site in a bike shed.

The bicycles are a popular check-out item at Anythink Commerce City, prompting some community members to reengage with the library. Customers expressed their appreciation for having a check-out period long enough to use the bikes for commuting. Additionally, the program prompted new programming partnerships. Anythink Commerce City hosts programs on self-defensive riding and other topics with Bicycle Colorado, a nonprofit that champions bicycle accessibility.