Spotlight On: BG Arts Library of Things

This week, we saw the launch of something exciting in Blaenau Gwent – BG Arts Library of Things, a new community service where residents can borrow arts and events equipment for free.

Every Tuesday morning, the service opens its doors at Llanhilleth Miners Institute, turning the community café into a hub of sharing and sustainability. From 10.30am to 12 noon, neighbours can drop in to borrow items that have been checked, tested, and come with all the info needed to use them safely.

This project encourages residents to Borrow Not Buy – helping reduce waste, save money, and support a more sustainable Blaenau Gwent.

A nod to Valleys spirit

It feels especially fitting that the Library of Things is based in Llanhilleth Miners Institute. For generations, the Valleys have been built on community spirit – people looking out for one another, sharing what they had, and pulling together through thick and thin.

The Library of Things is a modern expression of that same spirit. Instead of lamps and ladders being left unused in cupboards, or event equipment gathering dust, we’re sharing them with each other. It’s a reminder that the values that made our communities strong in the past are just as important today.

A Wales-wide movement

Becky Harford, Benthyg Cymru Director & Co-founder, who joined the launch, shared:

“The Wales-wide movement we set out to achieve isn’t just about borrowing, it’s about coming together as neighbours, making use of every resource and looking out for each other as a community.”

About BG Arts

BG Arts is the new Arts Development Service for Blaenau Gwent. It works with residents, artists and partners to create a vibrant, imaginative and ambitious arts sector in the borough. The Library of Things has been made possible thanks to collaboration with environmental sustainability colleagues at the Council and funding from Welsh Government.

Get involved

Borrowing is simple. You can:

• Register online: BG Arts Library of Things / Llyfrgel o Bethau Celfyddydau BG
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• Pop in on a Tuesday between 10.30am–12noon at Llanhilleth Miners Institute, Meadow Street, Llanhilleth, Abertillery, NP13 2JT.

Volunteer with us

The Library of Things is run with the support of volunteers – and there’s always room for more! Volunteering is a chance to:

• - Support your local community.
• - Develop new skills.
• - Meet new people.

Whether you’ve got practical know-how or people skills, your contribution can help keep the service running smoothly and reliably.

If you’d like to be part of the team, get in touch today:

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📧 Email: bgartslibraryofthings1@gmail.com
📞 Phone: 01495 400211
🌐 Website: BG Arts Library of Things

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Together, we can celebrate the best of our Valleys’ past while buiding a sustainable future – one borrowed item at a time

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