Circular October – A Month of Sustainability
Our current economic system isn’t working, so why not create a better system built on sharing and repairing instead?
This October, The Tool Library is proud to present Circular October, a month-long series of events and workshops dedicated to promoting the principles of circularity. The focus of this programming is to highlight the importance of rethinking our relationship with materials, resources and waste, with the aim of fostering a more sustainable and regenerative future for the Western New York community.
What is Circularity? Circularity is an approach to resource use that aims to minimize waste and keep items items in use for as long as possible through repair, reuse, recycling and upcycling. Unlike the traditional system where products are made, used and thrown away, circularity helps cut down waste and protect the environment while encouraging new ideas and stronger community connections.
Event Schedule:
Saturday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
SCRAP Documentary Screening
North Park Theatre (1428 Hertel Avenue)
A film by Stacey Tenenbaum that explores our relationship with objects, what happens when we discard them, and how people around the world are giving these items a second life. Tickets are $12, with proceeds supporting The Tool Library’s Dare to Repair Cafes.
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Visible Mending Workshop w/ Susan
The Tool Library (2626 Main Street)
Fast fashion is a leading contributor to landfill waste. In this hands-on workshop, learn the art of visible mending from master seamstress Susan, who will show you how repair can be both useful and beautiful.
Saturday, Oct. 19, 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Dare to Repair Café
Orchard Park Public Library (4570 S. Buffalo Street)
Bring your broken items to this pop-up community repair event, where a team of volunteer fixers will work alongside you to try to repair them—for free!
Tuesday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Lamp Repair Workshop w/ Adam
The Tool Library (2626 Main Street)
Got a lamp that won’t light? Come learn how to repair and rewire it with the help of our volunteer fixer, Adam. Bring your own lamp or work with one of ours—repair parts provided.
Saturday, Oct. 26, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Tools & Treats Tool and Bake Sale
The Tool Library (2626 Main Street)
Join us for a sidewalk sale where we’ll be slinging delicious baked goods and hundreds of tools ranging from hammers and wrenches to circular saws, drills, woodworking tools, garden tools, lawnmowers, and so much more!
Tuesday, Oct. 29, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Lecture with Ken Ilgunas
Buffalo Maritime Center (90 Arthur Street)
Ken Ilgunas, an award-winning author, journalist, backcountry ranger and WNY native will share his experience as a right-to-roam advocate and explore the promise of the Commons to build a more sustainable future.