Share Space

What is the Aloha Community Library Share Space?

Share Space is an area at the front of the library where food, personal care items, and other donated items are free and available to everyone. It is open during library hours. We are dependent on community donations to stock the shelves. There may not always be food available, but we will share all that we receive with our neighbors.

ACL Share Space is a band aid for food needs, not a food pantry. There are many people in our community facing challenges. We’re committing some of our physical space and stretching donated food and other items as far as possible to help as many neighbors as we can. This is not a perfect solution. We’ll make changes as needed as we learn how this experiment works.

For those in need of assistance:

  • Visit the Share Space during library open hours to select enough food and personal care supplies for a day or two and leave the rest for others.
  • The only information we will ask for is a tally of how many people will eat the food that is selected (for program evaluation purposes).
  • We are currently not enforcing limits on the amount visitors can select, but depending on the volume of need, we may need to make changes.
  • Library staff can assist with locating food resources for longer-term needs.
  • If your longer-term food resource plan is in place and you have run out, please visit to see if we can help!

For those who would like to donate:

  • All food donations must be
    • Sealed (if in a package, box, can, bottle, etc.)
    • Not expired (preferably 30+ days prior to expiration date)
  • Please, no alcoholic beverages. The area is open to all ages.
  • Nutritious choices are encouraged.
  • Food (includes, but not limited to)
    • Cereal, oatmeal, granola/protein bars
    • Non-dairy milks (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
    • Canned fruit, vegetables, soup, meats, chili, etc.
    • Pasta, rice, grains (quinoa, bulgur, etc.)
    • Legumes (dried & canned)
    • Nut butters
    • Bread, tortillas
    • Fresh fruits and vegetables (Is your garden overflowing? Consider sharing your harvest!)
    • Pet food (non-prescription food only, please)
  • Personal care items (for library restrooms & ACL Share Space)
    • Tampons, sanitary pads
    • Toothpaste, toothbrushes (adult & children’s)
    • Bar soap, deodorant
    • Shampoo & conditioner
    • Lip balm
    • We accept hotel/travel size personal care supplies!

FAQs

  • Do visitors need to provide documentation that they qualify for assistance to access Share Space resources? No.
  • Do visitors need to check in with staff upon arrival or make an appointment to access the Share Space? No. But do let us know if you have any questions!
  • Where can I find a food pantry to help with long-term food needs? Oregon Food Bank Food Finder
  • I need assistance with other things like rent, childcare, transportation, etc. Where can I find help? https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/find-support/additional-assistance
  • Is the library accepting donations of clothing or shoes? Not at this time. The Aloha United Methodist Church Trading Post usually accepts donations of clothing and shoes. Visit their website for donation guidelines.