A student-run bike library at the University of Denver opened Thursday, seven months ahead of the Denver bike-sharing initiative that inspired it.
Nearly two years ago, DU students, intrigued by Denver Bike Share’s plan to build kiosks across the city and lend two-wheelers to anyone who wants to ride, decided they’d like to have a bike library on campus.
So they launched a student campaign and eventually partnered with the city of Denver and Denver Bike Share to build the DU Bike Library.
Thursday afternoon, Joshua Jackson Robinson rolled around the campus on one of the 20 bikes now available for students and faculty to use for free.
“It’s going to help make Denver more environmentally friendly, and I’ll get an extra 15 minutes of sleep,” joked Robinson, a DU senior who checked out the pearl-white bike between classes.
On Thursday, more than 70 DU students gathered outside of Nagel Hall to learn about the bike library and watch DU provost Gregg Kvistad take a spin.
“Student activism produces results, and we try not to put roadblocks on positive things,” Kvistad said.
The DU Bike Library also gives a glimpse of what Denver Bike Share’s program might look like when it launches next year on Earth Day, with 600 bicycles available for rent at 50 kiosks throughout the city.
Riders will be able to rent the bikes in 30-minute increments, although the first half-hour is free. Yearly memberships will be available. A three-hour ride will cost $14.
“We encourage short-term use,” said Parry Burnap, director of the Denver Bike Initiative.
The city’s bike-sharing program also will have online components, allowing riders to track their mileage, get carbon-emission reduction information and count the number of calories burned on each ride.
“Denver’s got a really healthy population. It’s sunny, flat and easy to navigate,” Burnap said. “It’s perfect for getting around on a bike.”
Annette Espinoza: 303-954-1655 or aespinoza@denverpost.com
How it works
The DU Bike Library has 10 bikes parked at each of two kiosks near Nagel and Centennial residence halls.
The bikes can be checked out for free until 7 p.m. daily to students and faculty who show a valid DU ID card.
The bikes have built-in locks with keys and sturdy metal baskets that can hold up to 25 pounds.
Red brake lights are solar-powered, and bicycle helmets will be offered to riders.
