Historic Macon announced initiatives Thursday that will help train new carpenters as well as establish a tool library for the community.

HMF also will hold a series of workshops on wide-ranging topics this spring and summer that will help homeowners and skilled workers alike. The first one is scheduled for May 15.

“As we tackle our preservation projects at Historic Macon, one of the challenges we face is finding skilled carpenters, especially ones who believe in our mission,” said Ethiel Garlington, HMF’s executive director. “Rather than just hoping the situation improves, we’re doing something about it: recruiting three apprentices and training them to carry on this important work.”

Thanks to a generous grant from the Watson-Brown Foundation, Historic Macon hired a carpenter in residence last year. Now, the preservation nonprofit is seeking candidates for the preservation carpentry apprenticeships. (Go to “Professional Opportunities” on the Historic Macon website for more information.)

The 10-week program will include instruction, job-site experience, professional training and field excursions to learn more about trades. The curriculum will highlight aspects of historic preservation. The goal is that successful candidates find permanent, full-time positions in the construction industry.

The tool library will provide an opportunity for Macon-Bibb County residents to borrow tools for their home-improvement projects, from saws of different kinds to yard tools and pressure washers. Residents will have to set up an online account linked to a credit card before they can borrow a tool, but there will be no cost to do so.

The workshops and home-repair classes, held at 909 Second St., will offer training for both homeowners and skilled workers alike.

The first session, “Fingers and Toes” on May 15, will focus on tool safety and include hands-on practice. Brad Jamison, who teaches at Central Georgia Technical College, will teach the proper way to operate common construction tools, such as circular and miter saws. The session will run from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

On May 22, from 10-11:30 a.m., Travis Spencer will lead another workshop, “Stile-ish Doors,” on how to refurbish both wooden and glass doors.