'Library of Things' are a growing trend in the USA, Spain, and Europe. They are also becoming more popular in the UK and Ireland. These collections of physical objects allow people to borrow instead of buy, which can help to reduce waste and encourage sharing.
There are now over 50 'Library of Things' in Spain, and the number is growing rapidly. Libraries of Things are located in a variety of settings, including libraries, community centers, and even schools.
The most popular items at Libraries of Things are tools and equipment, followed by games and toys. Libraries of Things are most popular in urban areas, but they are also starting to become more common in rural areas.
Libraries of Things are often funded by grants or donations, and they are staffed by volunteers.
Community Spirit in Spain
Community spirit is a strong tradition in Spain. People are often willing to help out their neighbors and their community. This is evident in the many community-based organizations that exist in Spain, such as sports clubs, volunteer groups, and community centers.
Community spirit is important for a number of reasons. It can help to build a sense of belonging and community, it can provide support and resources to those in need, and it can help to make a community a more enjoyable place to live.
There are many ways to get involved in community spirit in Spain. You can volunteer your time to a local organization, donate to a worthy cause, or simply get to know your neighbors.
The Benefits of Library of Things and Community Spirit
Library of Things and community spirit have a number of benefits, including:
Reduced waste: When people borrow instead of buy, they reduce the amount of waste that is produced.
Encouraged sharing: Libraries of Things and community spirit encourage people to share resources, which can help to build community and reduce costs.
Access to new things: Libraries of Things and community spirit give people access to new things that they might not otherwise be able to afford or have space for.
Increased sense of belonging: Libraries of Things and community spirit can help people feel more connected to their community and their neighbors.
Reduced social isolation: Libraries of Things and community spirit can help people connect with others and reduce social isolation.
Improved mental and physical health: Libraries of Things and community spirit can help improve mental and physical health by providing opportunities for social interaction, exercise, and relaxation.
Overall, the Library of Things movement in Spain is a vibrant and growing movement that is helping to promote sustainable living and community spirit. The movement is unique in its rapid growth, decentralization, and community-led approach.
Here are a few unique things about the Library of Things movement in Spain:
It is growing rapidly. The number of Libraries of Things in Spain has grown from just a few in 2015 to over 50 in 2023. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including the increasing popularity of ethical sustainable living, the growing awareness of the environmental impact of consumerism, and the increasing availability of funding and support for community-based initiatives.
It is decentralized. Unlike in Ireland, where the Library of Things movement tends largely to be centralized in Dublin, the Library of Things movement in Spain is decentralized, with libraries located in a variety of cities and towns across the country. This decentralization helps to ensure that people in all parts of Spain have access to the resources they need to live more sustainably.
It is community-led. The Library of Things movement in Spain is largely community-led, with libraries being run by volunteers and community organizations. This community-led approach helps to ensure that the libraries are responsive to the needs of the local community and that they are sustainable in the long term.
Conclusion
Libraries of Things and community spirit are two important trends in Spain. They offer a number of benefits, including reduced waste, encouraged sharing, access to new things, increased sense of belonging, reduced social isolation, and improved mental and physical health. If you are looking for ways to be more sustainable, save money, and connect with your community, consider using a Library of Things or getting involved in community spirit.
Here are some examples of the 'Library of Things' movement in Spain:
La Biblioteca de las Cosas de Sant Boi: This library is located in Sant Boi de Llobregat, near Barcelona, and has a collection of over 1000 items, including tools, equipment, games, and toys.
La Red de Bibliotecas de Objetos de la Comunidad de Madrid: This network of libraries is located in over 10 municipalities in the Community of Madrid, and in over 20 cities across Spain and has a collection of over 5000 items.
Biblioteca de las Cosas: This library is located in Málaga and has a collection of over 500 items, including tools, equipment, games, and toys. The Library of Things in Málaga is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 2pm and from 4pm to 8pm. It is also open on Saturday from 10am to 2pm. To borrow an item from the Library of Things in Málaga, you will need to create a membership. Membership is free and can be done online or at the library. Once you have a membership, you can borrow up to 3 items at a time. Items can be borrowed for a period of 2 weeks.
The Library of Things in Málaga is located in a small, unassuming building in the El Palo neighborhood of Málaga.
The building is painted bright yellow and has a sign that says "Biblioteca de las Cosas" (Library of Things).
The inside of the library is small but cozy. There are shelves of books and magazines, as well as a variety of items that can be borrowed, including tools, equipment, games, and toys.
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.