The growing DIY movement has tapped into a basic human need to create, enhance and push the limits. As planning began for the new Elkridge Branch, HCLS hosted “dream” sessions, asking community members what they wanted and floating the idea of a DIY Education Center. Since opening, borrowing has soared by 143 percent and residents are asking for more DIY classes. The collection provides equal opportunities for learning new hands-on skills at no cost.

HCLS surveyed staff and hundreds of customers about what tools and classes they might borrow and attend. Then, in consultation with three key business partners, developed a collection plan and series of classes in three categories: Repair and Maintain, Create and Adventure. The DIY collection includes tools for home projects, bicycle repair, baking and sewing. The DIY Studio features such classes as Salad Table Construction, Bicycle Tire Changing Clinic, Introduction to Drop Spindles and Vermicomposting.

The community has enthusiastically embraced the concept. DIY videos posted on HCLS’ social media attract thousands of views (four to eight times more than others), boosting borrowing by 100 percent. Class attendance is at capacity. Whether for a child and grandparent building a birdhouse, a homeowner borrowing tools to repair a sheetrock wall or an entrepreneur creating a widget on a 3-D printer for a business venture, the DIY Education Center optimizes collaboration and creativity.