Derbyshire’s 'library of things' lets you borrow household items like hoovers, ladders and drills

A library that lets you borrow household items such as hoovers, drills, DIY paraphernalia and more is set to launch in Derbyshire this month.

Buxton Library Of Things uses the same ethos as a regular book library and lets members take out items on loan.

The mission is to get people to ‘borrow not buy’ items that would otherwise only be used a few times. 

This means instead of buying bulky and often expensive items that you’d use once fleetingly, such as hedge trimmers, ladders, or carpet cleaners, you can borrow them instead from Buxton Library Of Things. 

Read more: Love Derby

The idea behind the national initiative means accessibility of items - that would otherwise not be available to those with limited space and budget - is open to everyone. 

Borrowing instead of buying items means you are getting more use out of items. This is an environmentally-friendly approach that also provides greater access to budget-conscious people.

Returning items once used means you are also freeing up space and not clogging up your home with objects you will rarely use.

Buxton Library Of Things' inventory already has a number of interesting items that people can borrow.

These include a Vax upright carpet cleaner which retails for £90, and a Compound mitre saw which costs approximately £120 - both which you can borrow for a small fee.

Membership costs £5 or £2.50 if unwaged for the full year. Borrowing fees are suggested but flexible (Pay As You Feel) to ensure equal access to all.

Some high-value items may require a refundable security deposit. Once the Library of Things has launched in January, the website will show more information about the availability of items and suggested fees.

Buxton Library Of Things is a not-for-profit organisation launched by Transition Buxton CIC. It is run by volunteers and joins over 70 other similar ventures across the country.

The launch event will last for approximately one hour and refreshments will be provided. Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, will also be attending, to offer his support and insights into the initiative.

Organisers are keen to hear from people who would like to volunteer their services to work onsite at the library, or from those who would like to donate items in good condition.

Tents, cameras, fold-up mattresses, waffle machines and pasta makers are all items that are currently available in London locations. These are the kinds of items that could make great donations to Buxton Library Of Things, if you already have them in your home but which you no longer need.

Ideally items would come with original instructions and attachments. 

To RSVP to the launch, email [email protected]

More information about Buxton Library Of Things can be found by visiting their website here.