Now you can borrow a YMCA membership at the library

Anyone with a local library card can now get a one-week pass to the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA.

"Physical health is immensely connected to mental health," says Matthew MacDonald, the library's chief executive officer.

"Thus, the library partnered with the local YMCA to pilot a new project that provides a free circulating YMCA pass to the community," MacDonald said in a report prepared for tonight's meeting of the library board.

"The pass was created to reduce the financial barrier of accessing physical health resources, but also giving the families the chance to try something new."

"The pass allows up to five people to attend at one time with access to all amenities."

"Members will be provided with a tour on their first day and information about membership packages, including their social support package for low-income individuals."

MacDonald mentioned the new YMCA pass as one of a growing number of items in the collection's 'object library.'

These include:

• 3D printer
• portable DVD player
• bike locks
• build boxes
• snowshoes (seasonal only)
• Ontario Parks pass
• thermal cameras
• digital radon detectors
• arts and culture pass
• Northern Think Hub

To learn more, check out the library catalogue and search for 'objectlibrary' to access their special collection.

In other news, the public will be able to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library Archives during the Doors Open event on event Saturday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The archives are at the North Branch Library at 232C Northern Ave. E.

All attendees must reserve tour spots individually.

Call the North Branch Library at 705-759-5248 for reservations.