Llanidloes Library of Things

Why? / Pam?

To create a Library of Things in Llanidloes which will enable people to share tools and household goods across the community.

What? / Beth?

The Library of Things is a store of useful tools and equipment to borrow - like a carpet cleaner, wall paper stripper, hedge trimmer, stairgate, camping equipment. It saves us all from having lots of stuff in our cupboards that we rarely use and it means those who can't afford to buy can still get access to things they need. It helps supports a more sustainable lifestyle and better community resilience by reducing waste, increasing community cohesion and supporting those struggling with the cost of living increase. Since we received the Localities Initiative funding, we have surveyed the local community via social media to see what kind of things they would like to borrow and whether they had any tool and equipment to offer - and found that there was huge enthusiasm for the project. We have found premises, appointed a 1 day per week project officer, secured insurance and begun receiving donated tools and equipment. We organised a volunteer work day to check, PAT test, clean, photograph and catalogue all the items. We have joined the national Benthyg organisation which has been invaluable - they have templates and suggestions for all the policies, procedures, membership forms etc and it also gives us access to Lend Engine, the website to enable online booking of our items. We are aiming to go live by the end of September and are currently looking for ongoing funding.

Where? / Ble?

Llanidloes - though the Library of Things is available to those living in the surrounding area as well

Who? / Pwy?

Zero Carbon Llanidloes; The Hanging Gardens/ The Wilderness Trust; Benthyg. To find out more, please contact Maya Bimson (mayabimson@hotmail.com) or Sammy Pilpel (llani.libraryofthings@outlook.com) Llanidloes Library of Things Facebook Group