Library of Things
A Library of Things is not a library in the traditional sense. It's a hub of shared resources, offering access to a vast array of items for borrowing — from trestle tables and tents to sewing machines and suitcases. With the simple ethos of "borrow, use, return, repeat," a Library of Things promotes a culture of sharing, collaboration, and community connection. Items typically include DIY tools, garden machinery, kitchen appliances, camping gear, event equipment, and useful household items.
Benefits include saving money, freeing up space, and reducing waste and carbon emissions.
Frequently asked questions
Who uses a Library of Things (LoT)?
SHARE Flitwick and Ampthill is used by a range of people, including those who are:
- wanting to live more sustainably
- living in space-poor accommodation
- wanting to try something before buying
- new to the area or here temporarily
- wanting to save money on one-off items
- borrowing things for fun
- interested in items like carpet cleaners, power washers, dehumidifiers, disco balls, camping gear, and garden tools
Are other Library of Things models also available?
Yes. SHARE is small-scale, but larger LoTs exist in urban areas, such as Share Frome and Share Bristol. Other models include the mobile Share Shed, the Edinburgh Tool Library, and Milton Keynes’ new Library of Things in Bletchley. Franchise and social enterprise models are also available via Library of Things UK.
Will it need a lot of start-up money?
SHARE started with £1,800 in grants for its website, insurance, and hall hire. It now benefits from free storage and a shopfront, with ongoing funding from grants. Most stock comes from donations, and some equipment was funded through volunteering grants and a Ward Councillor grant.
How about health and safety/Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?
All items are checked before listing. Electrical and moving-part items are PAT tested before and after loans. Terms and conditions help manage liability, and instruction manuals are provided as needed.
Where can I learn more about how to set up the organisation?
Contact info@shareflitwickandampthill.org for advice. Also check the Repair and Share UK Network and CVS Bedfordshire for help with constitutions and recruiting volunteers.
What if people break things?
Breakages are rare. Proof of address is required, and terms include provisions for cost recovery, though this hasn’t been used. Insurers cover liability, but not the item value during loan.
How much time will be required?
Even a small operation takes significant time. SHARE estimates around 800 volunteer hours per year for shop hours, admin, repairs, promotions, and events.
How many volunteers are needed?
A core team of at least four people is essential, with a wider group for support. Volunteering is rewarding and builds strong community engagement.
How quickly is it possible to get it going?
SHARE took about 18 months: initial talks in June 2021, CIO status by April 2022, and public launch in November 2022. This timeline could be shorter if run under an existing organisation.
How much space does a Library of Things need?
You’ll need secure, accessible storage and a nearby public-facing space for lending. SHARE uses space at the Rufus Centre in Flitwick, supported rent-free by the Town Council.
What about repair and reuse?
SHARE runs Repair Cafes and maintains donated stock through repairs. Broken items aren’t accepted, but many usable ones are restored.
Where can I read more?
The Library of Things directory offers a good overview and a map of UK LoTs. For local interest, email begreen@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.