Yak Shack now accepting reservations!

Popularity of kayak loan program prompts changes

With just over a week under its lifejacket, the Yak Shack loan program through the St. Mary Public Library has been extremely popular, with all four kayaks signed out – and many eager waiting for their return.

To allow greater access to this free program, starting tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 5, those wishing to borrow a kayak can now make reservations by calling or visiting the library in-person.

“We’ve been amazed by how popular the Yak Shack is, both with residents and visitors to St. Marys,” says Town of St. Marys Tourism and Economic Development Manager Kelly Deeks-Johnson. “By allowing reservations, we hope that the process of loaning a kayak is more enjoyable by allowing users to better plan their trip.”

To make a reservation, simply call the St. Marys Public Library at 519-284-3346 or visit during the library’s business hours to book a date and a three-hour timeslot.

Patrons are allowed a maximum of two live bookings at any time, and reservations can be made as far as September 30, which will be the last day of the Yak Shack for this season. Those with reservations must pick up keys within 20 minutes of the start of the reservation, otherwise the reserved units will be released. Additionally, please contact the library in advance if a reservation must be cancelled.

Walk-in lending is still allowed but reservations are recommended. Patrons are also reminded that all members of a party must be present when keys are picked up, so that waivers can be signed and lifejackets properly disbursed.

For more information on the program, visit www.discoverstmarys.ca/yakshack.