Clearview Township’s Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the Clearview Public Library have launched the Active Communities Project Lending Library. The pilot project adds to the library’s lending catalogue, making active equipment available to library patrons.

Working towards the Active Communities project goal of creating sustainable programs for all ages and abilities, the lending library increases access to physical activity equipment, beginning with Nordic walking poles, by eliminating cost barriers.

There are 15 sets of walking poles available to borrow through the three Clearview Public Library branches. Borrowers will have access to the Nordic walking poles, carrying bag and instructional pamphlet. The lightweight walking poles use nearly 90 per cent of the body’s muscles, including the arms, chest, and shoulders, providing a better upper-body workout than walking alone and increased stability on uneven terrain, reducing the risk of falls for seniors or those with reduced mobility. “The library offers more than just books,” said Clearview Public Library CEO Jennifer LaChapelle. “The new Active Communities Nordic walking poles will expand opportunities for adults and seniors to borrow equipment and try out a new activity.”

Manager of Parks and Recreation, Amanda Murray, sees the ACP lending library as a natural fit.

“This new initiative supports the goal of the Active Communities Project. It was a natural fit to partner with the library and reduce the cost barrier to active equipment,” she said.

For the past two years, the Active Communities Project has been funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, providing programs that increase opportunities for physical activity for all ages in Clearview Township. If successful, the lending library may be expanded to offer snowshoes and other active equipment.