A bike library — have you heard of one? It’s just like borrowing a book from a library, but instead, you check out a bicycle. It’s a “try before you buy” step that helps people ease into biking instead of driving everywhere.

Bike libraries are a smart way to get more people on bikes — improving commutes, boosting health, and increasing happiness in the process. As more people choose biking over cars, communities are encouraged to invest in better bike infrastructure. That means fewer emissions, more green bike paths, and neighborhoods that feel more welcoming and people-friendly instead of car-centric.

The world I imagine is a mix between the Netherlands and Singapore. Singapore calls itself a “city within a garden,” and the Netherlands is famous for its commitment to biking and greenery over cars and pollution.

At the heart of both countries’ approaches is a focus on their citizens’ health and happiness. And underneath that? Economic well-being. Countries that put people before cars also become destinations — places people want to visit and live in. That’s good for tourism, property values, local businesses, and even healthcare systems, thanks to healthier, more active populations.

There’s also something beautiful about the social side of biking. When people are on bikes or walking, they’re more likely to pop into shops or cafés, or smile and chat with neighbors and strangers alike. A simple hello or a nod can do wonders for your mood — a small human connection that cars often isolate us from.

I think I’m going to look more into these bike libraries. Maybe you can check if your city has one, or even see if your community could benefit from starting one. It might be a small step — or pedal — toward a healthier, greener future.