Exciting Launch of Ealing Library of Things at Ealing Broadway
A brilliant and community-driven initiative is set to launch at Ealing Broadway next Tuesday. With the support of Ealing Council, the Ealing Library of Things will officially open its doors in mid-June. This innovative project will offer residents the opportunity to hire dozens of useful household, DIY, and gardening items for a small cost.
The Library of Things is a social enterprise focused on helping people save money and reduce waste by providing affordable rentals of items such as drills, sound systems, and sewing machines. Beyond just item rentals, the initiative also encourages the sharing of practical skills like DIY and repair within the community.
Benefits for Ealing Residents
Ealing residents will greatly benefit from this service in several ways:
- Cost Savings: Instead of purchasing new items, residents can rent them at a fraction of the cost.
- Waste Reduction: By borrowing instead of buying, waste is significantly reduced, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
- Skill Sharing: The community aspect of the Library of Things helps people learn and share practical skills.
Additionally, for those who may need extra support, a concession membership is available, offering a 25% discount on rentals. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can benefit from this valuable resource.
Background and Growth
The Library of Things was founded by Emma Shaw, Rebecca Trevalyan, and Sophia Wyatt in 2016, drawing inspiration from similar projects in Berlin and Toronto. This women-led social enterprise launched its first self-service lockers in Crystal Palace in 2018. Since then, the concept has expanded rapidly.
Currently, Library of Things is available in 17 locations across London, with more locations in the pipeline. To date, more than 18,000 people have borrowed over 30,000 items, resulting in savings of more than £4.5 million and preventing approximately 200 tonnes of waste – equivalent to the weight of 16 London Routemaster buses.
Partnerships and Community Impact
Through strategic partnerships with product manufacturers such as Bosch, Kärcher, and STIHL, along with support from councils and community groups, the Library of Things is helping to create an alternative ‘circular economy’. This model is aimed at transforming neighbourhoods into low-waste, community-powered hubs.
The motivations for borrowing are not purely environmental. Renting items is also more cost-effective than buying, helps reduce household clutter, and provides a low-barrier way to learn practical skills like repair and DIY. This combination of financial, environmental, and educational benefits makes the Library of Things a valuable addition to the Ealing community.
For more information, visit the Ealing Library of Things at Ealing Broadway from June 11 and discover how you can start borrowing and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Key Highlights:
- Opening Date: mid June
- Location: Ealing Broadway Mall
- Items Available: Household, DIY, and gardening items
- Special Offer: Concession membership with 25% off rentals