STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Got a toaster that needs fixed? A dress in need of mending?

The Climate Action Coalition and Hailey Public Library are hosting a free Fix-It Cliic from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27. The clinic will be held at Hailey Town Center West, 116 S. River St.

Tinkerers and handymen and women will be on hand to disassemble, troubleshoot and, hopefully, fix personal items—basically, small, carry-in-sized household items like lamps and vacuums, broken household items and clothes in need of darning.

Those seeking help should bring any parts or materials they feel might be helpful as coaches will have tools but only a few parts.

The idea is to keep items out of the trash that can be saved, conserving resources, said Elizabeth Jeffrey, a member of the Climate Action Coalition.

“We throw away vast amounts of stuff in Blaine County and in the world. Even things with almost nothing wrong, which could get a new lease on life after repair or repurposing, get thrown out like trash. The trouble is, lots of people have forgotten that they can repair things themselves or they no longer know how. Knowing how to make repairs is a skill quickly lost … and quickly learned again.”

Those taking part hope Fix-It Clinics like this can teach people to see their possessions in a new light and to, once again, appreciate their value. The clinic is also designed to show people how much fun and easy it is to repair things.in pursuit of a sustainable society.

“We all know it’s important to use our natural resources wisely,” said Kristin Fletcher, engagement manager at the Hailey Public Library. “The Fix-It Clinic is all about getting more useful life out of our clothes and household items.”