Mickleover Library's first Repair Café a remarkable success

Mickleover Library's first Repair Café was a huge success with around 30 items - including small electrical items and clothing - brought back to life by a team of dedicated volunteers.

Residents turned out in force on Sat 25 Jan to give their broken or worn-out items a second chance. From fixing toasters to mending favourite clothes, the Repair Café demonstrated how small repairs can make a big difference - both financially and environmentally.

One visitor praised the initiative, saying:

The Repair Café is a fantastic idea! I came with some items which I was going to discard, and I was helped, advised, and attended promptly, with kindness and professionalism by all the volunteers. Thank you!

Another happy visitor said:

Brilliant! Very well organised despite being very busy. We saw a volunteer to fix our toaster - he knows his stuff! Loads of patience and restored the toaster to its former self. Refreshments available - so excellent. Lovely to see how kind people are.

The Repair Café is not just about fixing things - it is also about fostering a sense of community, learning new skills, and promoting sustainability.

Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities said:

The Repair Café really is a fantastic addition to Mickleover Library. It’s creating a welcoming inclusive space where people can come together to share their knowledge, learn new skills, and contribute to a more sustainable community.

Due to the enthusiastic response from the public, I am delighted to confirm that the Repair Café will now become a regular event, taking place on the last Saturday of each month, and I’d love to see this initiative extended to other parts of the city.

The next Repair Café will take place on Sat 22 Feb from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. There is no need to book - just turn up with your items and enjoy a friendly, welcoming space. For more details, visit the Derby Libraries website or contact Mickleover Library on 01332 647884.

To continue these amazing events, the Council are encouraging more people to volunteer. Not just repairers, but people who would be willing to make tea and coffee and manage the queues at reception.

Want to volunteer? Contact the library by phone or email libraries@derby.gov.uk.