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The Library of Things gives you access to a growing collection of useful, enjoyable and practical items. It’s just like borrowing a book from the library, except instead of a book you can affordably hire handy items like steam cleaners, DIY tools or a sewing machine!

Where can I borrow from?

  1. Quedgeley Library
  2. Up Hatherley Library
  3. Charlton Kings Library

You need to be a library member to borrow, so join in the library or online: Join | Gloucestershire Libraries 

Affordably hire useful items for £3 to £5 a week.

 

How does it work?

  1. Browse the collection
    Explore what’s available at your nearest participating library. Search the catalogue.
  2. Reserve your item
    Request it online or pop in and browse the display in the library to see what's available now. You will need to be able to collect from the library that has the item in stock.
  3. Borrow it for one week
    Pick it up just like any other library item. Affordably hire for £3 to £5 a week. You’ll need to sign a borrowing form agreeing to the terms and conditions. Bear in mind some of the larger items are quite heavy, so do think about how to transport them in advance.
  4. Use it, enjoy it, return it
    Bring it back in a week. Items cannot be renewed. Overdue charges of £1 per day apply to late items. Items must be returned to the library they were issued from, during staffed opening hours. Please return items in the condition they were borrowed. 

Library staff are always happy to help if you’re borrowing something for the first time.

 

Why borrow instead of buy?

Save money
Skip the upfront cost of buying something new. Whether you’re tackling DIY, hosting a gathering, or trying out a new hobby The Library of Things can help you access more!

Save space
No need to find room for tools, gadgets or equipment that might otherwise sit in a cupboard for months. Borrow what you need, return it when you’re done.

Protect the Planet
Sharing means less waste and fewer items being bought, thrown away or left unused. Small actions add up to big impact, together we’re helping Gloucestershire to become Greener Together.

 

What can I borrow?

Our collection varies by library, but includes items such as:

  • - Tools for DIY & craft like drills, sewing machines & tile cutters
  • - Household cleaning gadgets like carpet cleaners and pressure washers
  • - Gardening equipment like tools and hedge trimmers
  • - Items for leisure and fun like gazebos, projectors and candy floss makers
    …and much more.

We’re adding new “things” all the time, shaped by what our communities tell us they need.

 

Building a community that shares

The Library of Things is part of our commitment to strengthening community connections. By sharing resources, we’re supporting local residents to live more affordably, try new skills, reduce waste and be empowered to become Greener Together.

Whether you’re fixing, making, learning or exploring, there’s something here for you.

 

More Information

Frequently Asked Questions about the changes to Charlton Kings Library of Things Service