Yes, there is a Do It Best hardware store located in Harlan, Iowa. Known as Harlan Do It Best Hardware, it serves as a vital local resource for residents and businesses in Shelby County, providing a wide range of products and services for home improvement, construction, and everyday needs.
Harlan Do It Best Hardware is a proud member of the Do It Best Corp. cooperative, one of the largest member-owned hardware, lumber, and building materials cooperatives in the world. This affiliation allows the local Harlan store to offer competitive pricing and access to a vast inventory while maintaining its independent, community-focused ownership and operation. Shoppers can expect to find everything from lumber and building materials to paint, tools, plumbing supplies, electrical components, lawn and garden essentials, and housewares.
Understanding Do It Best and Its Local Impact
Do It Best Corp. is not a franchise in the traditional sense, but rather a cooperative where individual stores are independently owned and operated. This model is common among hardware stores across the United States, especially in smaller communities like Harlan. It empowers local entrepreneurs to run their businesses while benefiting from the collective buying power, marketing support, and distribution network of the larger co-op. For customers, this means the personalized service and local expertise of a neighborhood store combined with the product selection and pricing advantages of a national chain.
Local hardware stores like Harlan Do It Best Hardware play a crucial role in the economic and social fabric of Iowa towns. They provide convenient access to essential goods, create local jobs, and often support community initiatives. Beyond just selling products, these stores frequently offer valuable advice, special order services, and practical solutions tailored to the specific needs and challenges of their local clientele, whether it’s advice on winterizing a home or finding the right part for an older farm implement.
Harlan, Iowa: A Snapshot of Western Iowa Life
Harlan is the county seat of Shelby County, situated in the western part of Iowa. It’s a community that embodies the strong agricultural heritage and close-knit values characteristic of rural Iowa. With a population of around 5,000 residents, Harlan serves as a regional hub for commerce, education, and healthcare for the surrounding farming communities.
The town’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with corn and soybeans being major crops, alongside livestock production. Small businesses, including retailers, service providers, and local manufacturers, form the backbone of the local economy. Harlan operates in the Central Time Zone (CT) and experiences all four distinct seasons, which significantly influences the types of products and services a hardware store needs to stock throughout the year, from snow shovels in winter to gardening supplies in spring.
Practical Tips for Visiting Harlan Do It Best Hardware
When planning a visit to Harlan Do It Best Hardware, consider these practical tips to make your trip efficient and productive:
- Know Your Project: Have a clear idea of what you need or what project you’re tackling. The knowledgeable staff can help guide you to the right products and offer advice.
- Check Hours: Like many local businesses, hours can vary, especially on weekends or holidays. It’s always a good idea to check their current operating hours before you go.
- Ask for Local Advice: The staff at Harlan Do It Best Hardware are likely long-time residents or have deep local knowledge. They can offer insights on local building codes, weather-specific product recommendations, or even refer you to local contractors.
- Utilize Special Orders: If you can’t find a specific item on the shelves, ask about special ordering. As part of the Do It Best cooperative, they have access to a vast catalog of products that can often be ordered and delivered to the store.
- Support Local: By shopping at Harlan Do It Best Hardware, you’re directly supporting a local business and contributing to the economic vitality of Harlan and Shelby County.
Safety Notes for Home Improvement
While visiting a hardware store is generally safe, always prioritize safety when undertaking home improvement projects. When purchasing tools or materials, ensure you understand their proper use. Read all instructions and safety warnings. For tasks involving electricity, plumbing, or structural changes, consider consulting or hiring a licensed professional to ensure work is done correctly and safely, adhering to any local building codes or regulations. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Harlan Do It Best Hardware locally owned?
A: Yes, Harlan Do It Best Hardware is an independently owned and operated business that is a member of the Do It Best Corp. cooperative.
Q: What kind of products can I find at Harlan Do It Best Hardware?
A: You can typically find a wide range of products including building materials, lumber, paint, tools, hardware, plumbing and electrical supplies, lawn and garden items, housewares, and seasonal goods.
Q: Do they offer services like key cutting or screen repair?
A: Many independent hardware stores offer these types of services. It’s best to call Harlan Do It Best Hardware directly to inquire about specific services they provide.
Q: Can I order items online and pick them up at the Harlan store?
A: Do It Best Corp. has an online presence, and many member stores offer online ordering with in-store pickup. Check the Do It Best website or contact the Harlan store for their specific online order and pickup options.
Conclusion
Harlan Do It Best Hardware stands as a cornerstone business in Harlan, Iowa, providing essential home improvement and building supplies to the community. As an independently owned member of the Do It Best cooperative, it combines the benefits of local, personalized service with access to a broad inventory and competitive pricing. For residents of Harlan and the surrounding Shelby County area, it remains a reliable and convenient destination for all their hardware and project needs.
