Repair Cafe and Library of Things
Whether you want to fix your broken items or borrow tools instead of buying them, we have two fantastic volunteer-run services to help you save money and reduce waste.
Find out other local sustainability repair schemes on the Derby City Council website
Forthcoming dates
Repair café
Got a small electrical item that's seen better days? Need buttons replacing on skirts and trousers?
Don’t throw them away, bring them along to our Repair café.
Come and meet our friendly, knowledgeable volunteers who will help and advise you on fixing small electrical items giving them a chance to work like new or advise you on how to make simple repairs to clothes giving them a new lease of life.
If you are interested in volunteering at the Repair Cafe, please email or call Mickleover Library on 01332 647884.
Why visit our Repair café?
- Save money and avoid costly replacements by repairing your item.
- Reduce waste by extending the life of your item.
- Watch our skilled volunteers work and pick up tips on basic repairs you can try yourself.
- Meet new people and chat over a coffee.
What we repair:
- Small household electrical items.
- Blenders, handheld vacuum cleaners, kettles, and hairdryers.
- Small sewing repairs patching, turning up a hem, buttons replacing and darning.
We can’t repair:
- Mobile phones, tablets, and PC’s.
- Valuable heirloom items / antiques.
- Large household items for example fridge.
What to know before you come:
There will be a registration form to complete and sign when you arrive for each item.
- Repairs are at the customer's own risk.
- Advice and repairs are provided by volunteers at no charge. Specific parts (such as leads, plugs, fuses, zips, etc.) will need to be provided by the customer.
- Please bring clean items.
- Stay with your item during the repair process.
- The longevity of repair cannot be guaranteed.
- We may refuse repairs on damaged or dangerous items. Customers are responsible for the removing unrepairable items.
- Neither the organisers nor volunteers of the Repair Cafe are liable for any loss, injury, or damage that may occur during or after a repair. Parents are responsible for their children's safety.
By following these guidelines, you'll help us create a valuable experience for everyone.
The Library of Things
Need a jet washer for a one-off job? Want to borrow a carpet cleaner without buying one? Don’t have space to store a lawn mower?
The Library of Things allows you to borrow useful tools, equipment and household items in the same way you would borrow a book from a library.
Based at Chellaston Library, the Library of Things is a community-run initiative delivered by Share Cycle Derby. It provides residents with access to items they may only need occasionally, helping to save money, reduce waste and make the most of shared resources.
Run by the community, for the community Share Cycle Derby are bringing this not-for-profit initiative to Derby.
To find out more, including how to volunteer or donate items, please head to the Share Cycle Derby website.
Why use the Library of Things?
- Save money by borrowing items instead of buying them.
- Reduce waste by sharing items that may only be used occasionally.
- Save space at home by borrowing larger items when you need them.
- Try out new hobbies and activities without having to purchase equipment.
- Support a more sustainable way of using everyday items.
What can you borrow?
The Library of Things collection includes items such as:
- Tools
- Gardening equipment
- Camping equipment
- Household items
- Bakeware
- Craft kits
- Carpet cleaners
- Jet washers
- and more!
The collection is regularly growing, so visit the Share Cycle Derby catalogue to see what is currently available.
How does it work?
To borrow an item, you will need to:
- Register online (a small annual membership fee applies).
- Browse the Share Cycle Derby catalogue and reserve the item you would like to borrow.
- Collect your item from Chellaston Library, use it, clean it and return it ready for the next person.
When can I visit?
See the schedule for when the Library of Things is open.
The service is run by community volunteers, who will be available during opening hours to welcome visitors and provide support.
Get involved
The Library of Things relies on community support and is always looking for donations and volunteers.
You can donate useful items including tools, gardening equipment, camping gear, bakeware and craft kits.
Volunteers are also needed to support with activities such as tool collections, PAT testing, library operations, social media, website support, graphic design and accountancy.
To find out more about borrowing, donating or volunteering, visit the Share Cycle Derby website or email contact@lotderby.org.uk.
