No Longer a Baby: The Lending Library’s Big Birthday Growth Spurt

Our community events-focused Lending Library is officially moving past its “toddler” phase. Having just celebrated its third birthday, this community resource is experiencing a massive growth spurt, evolving from a nascent pilot into a highly active engine for local events.

The numbers from the first half of the current fiscal year (July 2025 through January 2026) tell a story of rapid acceleration. In the last six months of last year, the library has facilitated 62 orders, lending our 2,987 items to support local events. To put that scale into perspective, those six months have already surpassed the entirety of the previous 12 months, which saw 54 orders and 1,952 items lent out.

This surge in activity is driven by a widening circle of participants. The library now supports 155 user accounts and offers an inventory of 2,673 reservable items. Engagement from local organizations is also at an all-time high. We have already partnered with 40 different groups this year in the last 6 months of 2025, up from 25 in 12 month period. Recent first-time borrowers highlight the diversity of the community we serve, ranging from small businesses like Charmed Crow Collective on NE Boardway and ZRE Music Studio in the Lloyd Center to community-focused entities like WERQ Together and Family Friend PDX.

Over its three-year history, the library has now placed 5,144 items into the hands of community groups and small businesses across 123 total orders. As we look toward the rest of 2026, the Lending Library remains a dedicated destination for those looking to build inclusive events without the heavy financial or environmental burden of buying new supplies.

Everything You Need to Know

The library is a completely free resource open to events and groups within the City of Portland (not just the Lloyd neighborhood). Whether you are an artist, a building manager, a small business, or a community group, you can access our inventory. You do not even need to be a registered nonprofit or state-certified business to participate.

Our catalog features essential event gear, including:

• Power & Sound: Electric generators, PA sound systems, and projectors.
• Infrastructure: Tables, chairs, lighting, and canopy tents.
• Hospitality: Reusable dishware, napkins, and coolers.
• Entertainment: A variety of yard games, button makers, and more!

How it Works

• Reservations: Browse and book items online for up to seven days.
• Pickup: All items are picked up from our office in Lloyd Center. Please note we do not offer delivery options at this time.
• Eligibility: The library is for community groups or business use (both formal and informal). It is not generally available for private, individual use, like backyard birthday parties.
• Is there a cost? Nope! Free to borrow items!

Why It Matters

The growth of the Lending Library is a win for both the environment and community equity. By providing free access to event supplies, we reduce the financial barriers that often prevent small businesses and neighborhood groups from hosting inclusive gatherings. Furthermore, every borrowed item represents a victory for the circular economy. Reusing resources instead of purchasing single-use or new equipment reduces waste and lowers the collective carbon footprint of Portland’s event scene. When we share resources, we build a more sustainable and connected city.