August 19th, 2026
Learning by Doing: Building Skills, Confidence, and Community
By: Kim Sproul, Community Development Manager
In January 2026, Kitchener-Waterloo Library of Things’ (KWLOT) Support Librarian, Kevin, pointed out how cool it would be if KWLOT hosted a workshop where a group of newbies were able to practice hanging pictures on walls where mistakes don’t matter! The idea was to learn by trying and doing. To make holes in a wall and to perhaps make mistakes, but to have the freedom to try again, without consequences, until it’s right.
Kevin worked alongside Tim, a member of our Employable Skills Development Program (ESDP) on developing a workshop. Tim wanted a work placement where he could make use of his skills with tools. Kevin and Tim built stand-alone frames out of 2x4s, put drywall on the frames, and then mudded and painted them.
They even installed pieces of pipe and wires on the back, to give participants the true experience of working on ‘real walls’ like they would in their own home!
After all the hard work and preparation, we held the “How to: Hang a Picture” workshop and were thrilled to welcome seven participants who learned how to use and practice their skills with stud finders, levelling tools, and drills.
Through an Ontario Trillium Foundation Grow grant, KWLOT will continue creating paid job opportunities for people with living expertise of disability to deliver workshops and repair events.
In this instance, Tim was a great fit to support the workshop. With lots of experience at home in construction and repairs, Tim was a valued team member. In fact, he taught other volunteers of KWLOT how to use drills and attach the sections of 2x4s for the frames. Tim took a leadership role, and this is exactly what you can expect to see more of at KWLOT.
From an idea about “practice walls” to a hands-on learning experience led by community members, this is what KWLOT is all about. Let us know what sorts of workshops interest you and what you’d like to try.
Better yet, if you have a skill you want to teach others, reach out at kwlot@eafwr.on.ca or drop by during our operational hours.