WWU's Energy Tool Lending Library Now Open

With a desire to create a tool lending option on campus that students and faculty could use for energy/engineering related projects, Aden Nevler, Patrick Shive, and Max Schneider wrote and submitted a grant through the Sustainable Action Fund Grant Program (now the Sustainability, Equity, and Justice Fund Grant Program). The Energy Tool Lending Library offers free access to professional equipment for research and energy related projects, while not burdening professors with the cost of providing critical materials to enhance their classes.

“It is our goal for this equipment to be used to enhance learning in relevant courses,” said Nevler. “In addition, we want to provide hands-on demonstrations and training, to enable students who may end up using these same tools in their professional careers. Lastly, many student live in shoddy off-campus housing and having access to this equipment is a way to reduce their utility bills and improve their control of their home environment. “

The funds from this grant paid for the equipment and one years’ worth of funding for student employees. You can learn more and check out the tools in the SMATE Library, from the front desk. Energy Tool Lending Library hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1-4 p.m. 

“We hope this resource will allow students from all disciplines to further their energy education, better understand how they use energy, and therefore reduce their personal carbon footprint,” said Shive.