Little Fibre Libraries for knitters gain popularity in Metro Vancouver
Posted September 15, 2023 9:26 pm.
Last Updated September 18, 2023 11:48 am.
Little libraries are popping up in neighborhoods all across Metro Vancouver, but instead of teeming with books, they’re overflowing with thread, yarn and knitting needles.
Started by Baaad Anna’s Yarn Store in Vancouver in 2021, Owner Paula Lindner says the libraries were originally designed as a way to connect during the pandemic.
“It was an easy concept to jump to at a time when we really were not able to connect,” Lindner said.
The idea, originally inspired by a shop in the U.S. with a similar library, has since grown in popularity.
There are now more than a dozen little fibre libraries across Metro Vancouver.
“It has been growing on its own, and very organically, which is really exciting,” Lindner said.
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Janna Maria Vallee, the creator of online craft resource Vancouver Yarn, says the libraries are now in high demand.
“Everyone wants one… in their community,” she said.
Not only are they a fun surprise, Vallee says they’re also a step towards making hobbies more accessible.
“Knitting and weaving are not cheap hobbies and there shouldn’t be a barrier to entry,” she said. “These days more and more people don’t have disposable income and so it’s nice to have a place where they can go and not have to worry about spending their precious dollars.”
Lindner says they also help crafters get rid of extra material that may not get used otherwise.
“Whether it’s little odds and ends or full beautiful yarn (that they) have been given, or they’re trying to de-stash a loved ones stash and help them find a home for it, it’s quite a relief for people to be able to find a home where it might eventually be used,” Lindner said.
In the future, Lindner says she hopes to see the popularity of the libraries continue to grow across the region as a way to build community.
“Every neighborhood could use more fibre arts in their life. We say more fibre in your diet,” she said.
“We encourage anyone who wants to be involved to reach out to us if you’re not sure how to do it, or just go and do it on your own.”
