our experience

We know a lot about the circular economy and public place making. We know because we’ve done a few things.

Take a look through the timeline below to get a better understanding of what we’ve been able to accomplish.

2011

We’ve got deep roots in the Circular Economy - Thingery Founder Chris Diplock was the co-founder of the Vancouver Tool Library (VTL) in 2011, Canada’s first community owned tool library.

To date, The VTL has been operating for 10 years, has over 2000 members and has hosted dozens of workshops.

2013

Understanding the tremendous impact that equipment-lending libraries can have on our communities and environment, Chris (along with current lead designer, Kieran Wallace) embarked on a city-wide research project in 2013 to understand how to grow the circular economy in Vancouver Download the report here.

The research revealed a clear demand for more sharing. So, Chris conducted a series of pop-up lending libraries in Vancouver to pilot the concept of neighbourhood equipment-lending libraries.

2018

The pilots were a success! In summer of 2018, The Thingery received permission to build two full-sized pilot sites within the City of Vancouver.

These two sites have registered over 500 members, received over 200 pieces of donated equipment, hosted a series of workshops, and empowered the community to pursue new projects and hobbies.

2022

In spring of 2022, The Thingery downsized its container sites and began to focus on installing custom Thingery sites in existing community spaces.

The Thingery is now focusing on using custom build storage units and locker systems to facilitate sharing within existing building and community spaces. This includes housing co-operatives, community centers, public libraries and residential buildings.

(Image credit John Baziuk)

What’s next for The Thingery?

With our model successfully piloted in Vancouver, BC - we’re ready to pilot Thingeries in new regions.

Our dream is that every community, no matter its size or location, has access to a Thingery that provides its members with the equipment they need to pursue their passions.

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"Our dream is that every community, no matter its size or location, has access to a Thingery that provides its members with the equipment they need to pursue their passions.”