You have likely heard of induction stoves, which are being put forward as a more climate friendly and safer alternative to gas stoves in homes. But there is no denying that they are a change from what people are used to and represent a fairly large cash outlay to buy.
But what if you could try one to see if an induction stove would work for you and your household? That's just what three libraries have done in Northampton, Massachusetts (population about 29,000). Library members can borrow an induction kit which consists of a single burner induction cooktop, a saucepan, frying pan and a meat thermometer.
There are two such kits at each of the three libraries and users can borrow them for two to three weeks to try them out. The program is sponsored by local climate change groups (Mothers Out Front, the Center for EcoTechnology and Local Energy Advocates).
Would your local library be interested in a similar program? How about seeing if there is a tool library locally that might be willing to participate if the 'traditional' library isn't? Share this idea with a friend and for a bit of humor see Jonathan Scott from Rewiring America showing off his fancy induction cooktop.