Library and OSU Launch Food Preservation Lending Program for Residents

Baker County Library District and Oregon State University Extension in Baker County are rolling out a Food Preservation Library of Things that will let local residents borrow equipment and access hands on training to preserve food at home. Funded by a Trust for Civic Life grant and modeled on a successful Libraries of Eastern Oregon pilot, the program combines short term lending of equipment with a series of free public workshops led by OSU Extension Family and Community Health faculty.

Available items listed for lending include dehydrators, water bath canners, steam canners, pressure canners, a basic canning kit, and supporting educational resources. The announcement describes introductory preservation, dehydrating and canning sessions that will accompany the equipment lending. Borrowers will be required to sign a liability agreement and to return items cleaned and in good condition. After the initial workshop series concludes the equipment will be available for loans for two week periods.

For Baker County residents this program addresses several local needs. Food preservation skills can extend the life of surplus produce from home gardens and local farms, reduce household food waste, and help families stretch tight food budgets as prices remain volatile. From a public health perspective learning safe canning and pressure canning techniques is important for preventing food borne illness, especially when preserving low acid foods. Partnering formal training with tool access improves the likelihood that preservation will be done safely and effectively.

The program also carries community and equity implications. By lowering the cost barrier to specialized equipment and pairing loans with free instruction the initiative can reach households that lack funds or space to buy and store gear. Intergenerational workshop formats create opportunities for older adults to share experience while younger residents gain skills, building social connections that support community resilience. To ensure equitable access program leaders will need to consider outreach to rural residents without reliable internet or transportation and to coordinate with food assistance providers and senior services.

Library and OSU Extension staff are leading scheduling and training details. Residents seeking workshop dates loan rules and contact information should reach out to the Baker County Library District or OSU Extension in Baker County for the latest schedules and participation requirements.