National Bike Month just got better. Nashville Public Library + Nashville BCycle have teamed up to launch the Books & Bikes for All initiative — aka a library pass to check out e-bikes.
🚲 How it works
It’s as easy as checking out a book. The NPL BCycle Pass fobs are housed at the Main, East, and Richland Creek library branches (each branch has three passes available), but you can pick it up at any NPL location. With the pass, you gain access to a pedal-assist electric bike from any of the 30+ BCycle stations. Hold on to the pass for up to a week for unlimited 2-hour trips. Pro tip: You can place a hold for the pass online.
🚲 Electric bikes 101
Remember the classic red bikes? BCycle’s electric-assist bikes check in + out of the existing docks the same way — they just give you an extra boost as you pedal. Take the BCycle Pass to any station (more on that here), tap the fob on the text, and wait for the light to turn green. The power assist only works when you pedal, and you can turn the power off at any time.
🚲 Upcoming community bikes events
- Build Bikes for Nashville Kids | Mon., May 23 | 5-7 p.m. | 6th & Peabody, 423 6th Ave. S. | Free | Join Can’d Aid to build bicycles for the entire 1st grade class at Chadwell Elementary — no experience is necessary, but registration required.
- E-Bike Learn to Ride | Thurs., May 26 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Cornelia Fort Airpark, 1199 Shadow Ln. | Free | Nonprofit Bike Fun will lead a bike safety session + participants will have the chance to ride an e-bike in a flat open area.
- Big Hill Challenge | Sat., June 11 | 7 a.m. | Watertown Middle School, 515 W Main St., Watertown | $20+ | Cyclists of all ages and ability levels are invited to enjoy one of four scenic routes.
Not a Nashville Public Library cardholder yet? Here’s how to sign up.