Derby's new Library of Things opens at Chellaston Library

A man stands in front of Chellaston Library with gardening tools, next to a Library of Things pull-up banner

A new community run Library of Things has officially opened at Chellaston Library, giving residents affordable access to tools, household equipment and other useful items. The service launched on Thu 23 Jul in partnership with not-for-profit organisation Share Cycle Derby CIC.

A Library of Things works much like a traditional library. Instead of borrowing books, members can borrow practical items such as jet washers, gardening equipment, tools, and camping gear.

The initiative gives residents affordable access to items that are expensive to buy, are only needed for a one-off project or simply don't have room to store. The service offers a sustainable alternative to buying new, helping people save money, reduce waste and make the most of shared community resources.

Councillor Sarah Chambers, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Public Safety, said:

"We're thrilled to be teaming up with Share Cycle Derby to create a new Library of Things at Chellaston Library. Libraries are at the heart of our communities, and the Library of Things shows how we can continue to provide practical, accessible services that make a real difference to residents’ everyday lives, alongside building a sense of community.”

Share Cycle Derby commented:

"We deeply appreciate the enthusiasm and support this project has already received from communities in Derby prior to launch. Most things in our library have been donated and serviced by local people or local businesses. We’re delighted to be based in the public library as it means people can use the great services the library offers when borrowing our things.”

The Library of Things is based at Chellaston Library and is open every Thursday from 12pm to 2pm.

Borrowing items is simple. To use the service:

• Register online (a small annual membership fee applies)
• Browse the Share Cycle Derby catalogue and reserve the item(s) you wish to borrow
• Collect the item from Chellaston Library, before cleaning and returning it after use

The Library of Things is run and managed by dedicated volunteers, who are on hand each Thursday to welcome visitors and help them find the items they need.

The project is also looking for more volunteers and donations to help the service grow. Library of Things Derby is currently working to add power tools, DIY tools and decorating equipment to the catalogue, and would like to be able to open on Saturday mornings. Residents can donate useful items or volunteer their time and skills to support on site or remote activities such as helping customers, repairing tools, creating social media, providing accountancy support and more.

To find out more about borrowing, volunteering or donating items, visit the Library of Things Derby website or email contact@lotderby.org.uk.

More information about the Library of Things and Derby Libraries is available on the Derby Libraries website.