WPM & Comprehension

In 1962, a small library in the coastal town of Marlow began lending out something unusual: garden tools. Founded by retired botanist Iris Chen, the "Tool Library" allowed neighbors to borrow rakes, shears, and even a wheelbarrow for up to two weeks at a time. Within five years, more than 400 households had joined. The idea spread, and today over 90 similar libraries operate across the country. Iris often said the goal was never really the tools — it was the conversations they started at the front desk.