Newmarket Public Library’s online databases provide DIY assistance

Yorkregion.com
July 22, 2018
Lorne Chase

Summer is a time of relaxation for most of us, but it’s also a good time to tackle that home improvement project you’ve been mulling over for a while. Or undertake that repair job on your lawn mower or vehicle. But few of us are as knowledgeable as TV handyman Mike Holmes when it comes to renovations, and not everyone knows their way around an engine.

Unless you have tons of experience it’s hard to know where to start.

Fear not, the library has just what you need to get started on your projects with confidence. Our DIY databases include the Home Improvement Reference Centre, as well as the Small Engine Repair Reference Center and Chilton Library.

Detailed advice for home projects

The Home Improvement Reference Centre provides guidance for a wide range of home projects. When you access the database you’ll find an A to Z list of topics, as well as project categories such as remodelling, decorating, woodworking, and outdoor. 

Say you want to build a deck, just choose the category outdoor, and then the sub-category decks. That’s where you’ll find detailed information on creating a deck for your house, complete with step-by-step instructions and full-colour illustrations.

All of the information in the database is prepared by professionals, and it even includes articles from magazines such as This Old House.

Instruction for small engine repairs

If your lawn mower is sputtering and belching smoke, it’s time to consult the Small Engine Repair Reference Center. This great resource contains data that will help you do routine maintenance and repairs on different makes and models of lawn mowers, including Briggs & Stratton, Lawn-Boy, Toro and more.

You’ll also find information on repairing small engines for boats, motorcycles, farm tractors, Jet Skis, snowblowers, and more.

Tips for tinkering under the hood

Chilton manuals have been a valuable resource for would-be mechanics for decades. With the Chilton Library database you get all the detailed information you expect, including maintenance and repair information for specific vehicle makes, models and years. And the photographs and illustrations will let you see step-by-step how to undertake maintenance and repairs.

As a library member you’re only a few clicks away from getting the job done now, and getting it done right. Contact the library for more information at 905-953-5110 ext. 4770. Check out our DIY databases today in our online library under research, DIY and hobbies.