Need photo or video equipment? Go to KPL

Posted on July 16, 2022

KITCHENER — Kitchener Public Library’s main branch is offering equipment for budding, experienced and experimental videographers and photographers.

The library took over Commons Studio from The Working Centre late last year and is now making the collection of filmmaking and photography equipment available to the public. The gear is suitable for all levels of experience and types of work.

The Working Centre used to run the studio out of its hub at 256-B King St. E., which started in January 2018.

With a library card, people can now rent the equipment out of Kitchener Public Library’s central branch at 85 Queen St. N.

“Access to filmmaking equipment can be pretty rare and this area doesn’t have a major rental house for accessing specialized equipment to make cinema-quality films,” said Nathan Stretch, co-ordinator of Commons Studio and the community development manager at KPL.

In Heffner Studio at the main library branch on Queen Street, people can also use editing suites, work on projects with Adobe Premiere Pro and borrow lighting equipment.

This access to professional equipment will “bridge the gap” and give people more access to cameras, lenses and lighting kits and allow them to learn and grow in the craft, said Stretch.

Available equipment includes continuous lighting kits, cinema quality glass, professional Sigma and Canon prime and zoom lenses, 4K and 6K film and photographic cameras, and a full suite of grip and electrical gear.

Some items must be rented, while others, such as Go Pros, can be borrowed for free.

Pickups and returns are done at Heffner Studio at 85 Queen St. N. or by booking online at kpl.org/commons-studio.

Community members, organizations and companies can also rent items with a library card.

“This project is a huge step into our creative community as well as our commercial community,” said Stretch.

The library is trying to fuel a culture of film in the region, he said. Commons Studio was created to meet the demand for access to equipment.

“We’re really excited to see what the community creates with extra access to (photo and video equipment),” said Stretch.