How to Articles

How to Create an Account
19-05-2024 Get ready to start borrowing items for free from the Guildford Library of Things
How to Reserve an Item
17-05-2024 Learn how to reserve items at the Guildford Library of Things. Follow our step-by-step guide to log in, browse the catal...
How to Renew an Item Loan
16-05-2024 Follow our step-by-step guide to log in, navigate to your loans, choose new return dates, and confirm your renewal.
How to Get Here
15-05-2024 Your handy guide to getting here

News

The Guildford Library of Things Returns

 

 

 

 

Guildford, 29th July 2024—The Guildford Library of Things (LoT) has made an exciting comeback with the mission to save residents money, reduce home clutter, and reduce the amount of waste going to Surrey landfills. This month, the LoT was relaunched with a collaboration that brings together the best of Zero Carbon Guildford and Guildford Library, offering over 100 items for the community to borrow—all free of charge.

 

Making a Positive Impact

Borrowing from the Guildford LoT helps residents save money and reduce clutter while cutting down on global waste and carbon emissions. Since ZERO's LoT launched, it has had a significant impact:

  • £38,000 saved by residents who borrowed instead of buying

  • 6 tonnes of CO2e saved

  • Over 200 users benefitted from the service

 

Since the launch of the new and improved Guildford Library of Things, it now has close to 300 members and completed 86 loans and 1.5 tonnes of CO2 equivalent saved since the soft launch on June 17th. 

 

A Vast Range of Items to Borrow

Guildford residents can now borrow items such as:

  • Tools
  • Gardening equipment
  • Board games and outdoor games
  • Heavy-duty quick-assemble gazebos
  • Pressure washers and window cleaners
  • Camping equipment, including chairs and cool boxes
  • Office equipment
  • And much more!

 

A Partnership for the Community

Referred to as a “beautiful partnership” by Saj Hussain, Chair of Surrey County Council, the idea of partnering with Guildford Library was first explored when the LoT was located on Friary Street. Overcoming initial hurdles, we are now thrilled to offer this expanded service to Guildford residents, accessible throughout the week at its new home in Guildford Library. Special thanks go to Godalming charity What Next?, Bryony Calverly & Nick Illot from Surrey County Council and the Library of Things team.

 

 

 

Expanding the Reach

Surrey Libraries have also collaborated with ZERO’s fellow climate charities. Last year, What Next? Godalming and Godalming Library launched their own LoT, and Dorking Library is currently exploring plans with Circular Dorking. Residents outside Guildford are encouraged to contact their local libraries to inquire about or advocate for a local LoT.

 

Launch Event Highlights

The relaunch event was a significant milestone, featuring speeches from Surrey County Council Chair Saj Hussain, ZCG Chair Olivia, with the Mayor in attendance, along with Surrey County Council Members and officers. The event highlighted the community's support and the collaborative spirit driving the initiative.

Get Involved

We invite the community to take full advantage of the Guildford Library of Things. Whether you need a tool for a DIY project, equipment for a camping trip, or games for a family gathering, the LoT is here to help you save money, reduce waste, and connect with your community.

 

To learn more, visit guildfordlibraryofthings.org or pop in to the Guildford Library.

 

Contact:

Thomas Lashbrooke
Guildford Library of Things Volunteer
info@guildfordlibraryofthings.org
www.guildfordlibraryofthings.org/contact


 

About Guildford Library of Things

The Guildford Library of Things is a collaborative project between Zero Carbon Guildford and Guildford Library, aimed at making borrowing easy, reducing waste, and strengthening the community. Our mission is to provide access to a wide range of items, free of charge, promoting sustainability and community engagement.