Guildford’s Library of Things Now Open
Guildford’s much anticipated Library of Things opened for lending earlier this month. The volunteer-run scheme hosted by Guildford Library is a collaboration between Guildford Borough Council, Surrey County Council and SUEZ recycling and recovery UK. One of the first of its kind in the country, the initiative enables residents to borrow hand-held DIY, gardening and decorating tools at a fraction of the cost to buy.
The well-attended launch provided residents with their first opportunity to borrow an array of ‘things’, from household tools to tents.
Cllr Philip Brooker, Lead Cllr for Housing and Environment explains: “This enterprising scheme expands the existing library service and creates a unique opportunity for residents who hold an active Surrey Library membership to borrow tools for a small donation, as they do with books, films and music. The only difference is we ask residents to view and book the items online.
“With household budgets under pressure and space at a premium, why buy expensive tools that you often use only once or twice when you can borrow them? There are also obvious benefits to the environment too, as by providing a place to recycle and reuse any unwanted DIY, gardening and decorating tools we help to divert waste from landfill. Please get in touch if you would like to volunteer your time or donate equipment to help launch this innovative and most useful scheme.”
The Library of Things builds upon Guilford Borough Council’s existing successful environmental initiatives; the Guildford Repair Café at the Park Barn Centre and Surrey County Council’s Makerspace in Guildford Library. It is open weekly on Thursdays, 4-7pm at Guildford Library.
To view Guildford’s Library of Things please visit: https://www.guildfordmakerspace.org.uk/
To place a request to borrow please email: libraries@surreycc.gov.uk
If you have hand held tools (no electrical items please) in excellent working order to donate, please contact climatechange@guildford.gov.uk or phone 01483 444509.
If you are interested in volunteering, are over 18 and have basic computer skills, please contact Helen Leech, Senior Manager, Digital Services at Guildford Library helen.leech@surreycc.gov.uk.