Members FAQ

What can I borrow?

Almost anything…the libraries in the network have a wide variety of items including DIY Equipment, gardening equipment, kitchen equipment, event, and entertainment equipment such as gazebos and disco lights, giant garden games.

Why should I borrow instead of buy?

Save yourself some money - do you really need to own a drill that you use a few times a year? Save space - free up some cupboard space and let someone else worry about storing the stuff you hardly ever use. Reduce environmental impact - the things we use are made from finite resources, the longer we can keep items in use the better. Borrowing can also decrease the demand for new items in the first place.

Where do the items come from?

Most of the items in libraries of things are donated by people in the community. Some of the libraries have had some grant funding to help pay for some newer items. If you have items at home that you would like to donate to your local Library of Things contact them directly. Generally your local library of things will only accept useful items in good condition, most will be picky but polite. Before donating ask yourself if you would want to use the thing in the condition that its in?

How much does it cost?

It will depend on your local Library of Things as they are all run independently. Some may charge a small membership fee to join, most offer a free membership. Loan fees are kept as low as possible – often considerably less than you would pay for the item second hand. (NB: For larger items there may be a small refundable deposit required.) The idea is to ensure borrowing is accessible as possible to everyone in the community. Some Library of Things will offer the option to pay in volunteer time. Ask your nearest one what options they have available. The loan fees help with local ongoing running costs, including maintenance and spare parts for the items A Benthyg Cymru core value is that borrowing should be available to everyone no matter the circumstances.

How does it work?

Your local Library of Things will have a website with an online catalogue that you can browse through. First you will need to register for a membership online. If you don’t have access to a computer, they can help you register in person. Once signed up as a member you will be able to reserve items in the catalogue online, in advance. The first time you borrow you will need to bring some ID with a photo and proof of your address, and you will need to sign the borrower’s agreement and liability waiver. You can then borrow your item/s.

Can I volunteer?

Yes! Volunteers are the bedrock of libraries of things... there's plenty to do from PAT testing to social media. Get in touch with your local library to find out how you gain gain skills, meet new people and be part of the borrowing revolution.

Are the items safe?

Yes, Libraries of Things all have rigorous risk mitigation processes in place from the beginning to the end of the borrowing process. These include regular PAT-testing and other maintenance

What is a Library of Things?

A Library of Things is a community space where you can borrow items for a small fee – that you might need to use just now and again. By signing up as a member of your local Library of Things, you can reduce the environmental impact of purchasing and owning items, as well as saving money and saving space.

What does Benthyg mean?

Benthyg is the welsh word or borrow or lend. It's pronounced ben-thig. One of our aims is to make the the word benthyg part of everyone's vocabulary, just like the word cwtch.