Equipment Library

Street Lab’s Equipment Library for Public Space enables community groups in New York City to borrow Street Lab’s custom-designed furniture and programming kits to activate neighborhood public spaces across the city.

Use the links below to see the library’s catalog and make a request. You can also submit ideas for new items to add to the Library!

Library Catalog...

FAQ...

Street Lab’s Equipment Library is a game-changer that will level the playing field.
—Jim Burke, 34th Ave Open Street Coalition

Launched in 2023 with founding support from the NYC Dept. of Small Business Services and NYC Dept. of Transportation, the Library has already lent out programming kits 258 times to 55 community groups, including 34 Business Improvement Districts, enabling 202 days of activation. In 2024, we aim to double the size of the Library, putting more resources in the hands of communities that are creating vibrant and inspiring public spaces across the city.

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Sponsor this work and help us grow the Equipment Library

FAQ

Who can borrow from the library?

Nonprofit, community-based organizations that offer free programs and activities in New York City public space are eligible for this new resource. Currently, we are only able to consider requests from groups that activate streets, plazas, and other DOT-managed spaces, but we are working to expand our capacity to support parks and community gardens, so all groups are encouraged to inquire.

Is there a cost for borrowing

Borrowing equipment is free, and drop-off and pick-up are included.

Do we need to provide storage?

No, Street Lab will deliver and pick-up on the day of the event.

Is there a limit to how much we can request?

No. We may be limited at times by capacity, but we encourage groups to ask for everything they need, and we’ll go from there.

When do we need to submit our request?

Please submit your request as far in advance as possible, however we may be able to accommodate requests submitted as late as one week prior to delivery.

What level of staffing is needed?

Generally, the equipment requires 1-2 people to set up and keep an eye on the gear or equipment when in use by the public. For some programs, it can be helpful to have someone to guide participants and encourage them to participate.

Can Street Lab provide staff to set-up and operate programs?

The purpose of the Equipment Library is to empower groups to activate the public realm on their own, but you can always request Street Lab to provide turn-key programming (including our staff) separately from the Library. Contact us.