The Library of Things on Kingswood’s High Street has hundreds of items - and whether it's garden tools or a chocolate fountain - it seems Bristolians are keen on borrowing. A project of Share Bristol, the organisers have confirmed a second Library of Things may soon open in south Bristol as they broke all records during April.
Share Bristol volunteer director, Anna Perry said the concept of borrowing ‘things’ from the library instead of having to rush out and buy new, has been enthusiastically welcomed with over £7,000 raised in Crowdfunder towards a second library in Bedminster. She said they had also seen a flurry of new members with 43 signing up for annual membership during last month.
Membership is £50 for the year, or £20 for low income households, which allows the member to borrow anything they may need from the well-stocked library during that year. Anna said: “April was a great month for the volunteer team behind the not-for-profit Library of Things currently based on Kingswood High Street.
Read next: Bristol's new open-air theatre that's surrounded by woodland
“Their Crowdfunder raising money to open a second Library in Bristol raised over £7,000 - giving them the confidence to press ahead with their plans. Alongside that, April saw a record number of new members joining, all of which kept the team very busy," she said.
She added that they were “no longer Bristol’s best kept secret” as the public had welcomed the project with open arms. To stock the shelves, residents emptied out dusty shelves and sheds of their 'stuff', dusted off the cobwebs and taken it all into the Library.
The library catalogue is divided into garden, DIY, home, adventure, hosting (party and events) and accessories (including safety). There is also a repair section in the catalogue where you can even borrow tools to repair your own things.
Read next: The worst drivers jailed in Bristol in the past six months
The team also has volunteers who repair items from the library stock. Anna said the concept was cost effective, whether holding a dinner party, starting a DIY project or going camping for the weekend, there was no need to go and buy new items while it also promoted the green circular economy by reducing possible waste.
Read next:
- 'Devil's Disciple' serial killer Patrick Mackay seen in Bristol after day release from prison
- The West Country's most stunning farm shop and cafe with food to die for nestled away in garden centre
- Coronation treasures up for grabs at Bristol’s ‘time warp’ sale
- Decision made on how Bristol City Council will run after the mayor role is abolished
