A Library of Things is a collection of physical objects that people can borrow instead of buying. This can include anything from tools and equipment to games and toys. The goal of a Library of Things is to reduce waste and encourage people to share resources.
The first official Library of Things as a brand was founded in 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark. It was called the "Borrow Station" and it was created by a group of artists and designers. The Borrow Station was a success and it inspired other communities to start their own Libraries of Things.
You will find a 'Library of Things' movement in many parts of the world, In at least 20 countries, including the USA, Nigeria, Uganda, UK, Spain and Ireland. However, the concept of 'The Library of Things' dates back in many cultures' history, especially in regards to 'Tool Libraries'.
Seattle is home to an old operating tool library set up in the 1970s that began with some University of Washington students wanting to clear out their dorm rooms!
In 2012, the first official 'Library of Things' in the United States was founded not far from Seattle, in Portland, Oregon. It was called the "Portland Tool Library" and it was created by a group of community activists. The Portland Tool Library was also a success and it inspired other communities to start their own Libraries of Things. Over the coming months we will trace back the history but for now let's go with the narrative of them being a new thing that has evolved over the past 50 years rather than something that has always existed since humankind, 'sharing' with our brother/sister for a better kinder world for all.
There are now over 100 Libraries of Things in the United States, and the number is growing rapidly.
"Libraries loaning “stuff” isn’t a new concept. Framed paintings were available for checkout at the Newark (N.J.) Public Library back in 1904. “Libraries were sharing before sharing was cool.”
Director of the American Library Association’s Center for the Future of Libraries
Types of Libraries of Things
There are many different types of Libraries of Things. Some are run by libraries, while others are run by community organizations or businesses. Some Libraries of Things focus on a specific type of object, such as tools or musical instruments. Others have a wider range of objects.
**Reduced waste:** When people borrow instead of buy, they reduce the amount of waste that is produced.
**Encouraged sharing:** Libraries of Things encourage people to share resources. This can help to build community and reduce costs. The power of connection can help communities to build ethically.
**Access to new things:** Libraries of Things give people access to new things that they might not otherwise be able to afford or have space for.
There are a few ways to find a Library of Things in the USA. We have listed some here below. You can search online, contact your local library, or ask your community organization.
Brooklyn Public Library, NY: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
City of Hope Library of Things, CA: This library has a collection of medical equipment that can be borrowed for free by patients and their families.
Durham Tool Library, NC: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
Emerald City Libraries, WA: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
Interfaith Community Services, MA: This organization has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free by low-income families.
Little Free Library, USA: This organization has a network of over 90,000 Little Free Libraries located in communities all over the USA. These libraries are free to use and they offer a variety of books, magazines, and other materials.
Portland Tool Library, OR: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
Recommended Reading Library, PA: This library has a collection of books, magazines, and other materials that can be borrowed for free.
San Francisco Public Library, CA: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
Seattle Tool Library, WA: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
Trinity Tool Library, CT: This library has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free.
University of California, Berkeley, CA: This university has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free by students, staff, and faculty.
University of Washington, WA: This university has a collection of tools and equipment that can be borrowed for free by students, staff, and faculty.
This is just a small sample of the many Libraries of Things that are available in the USA.
Libraries of Things are a great way to reduce waste, encourage sharing, and access new things. If you are looking for a way to be more ethical, sustainable and to save money, consider using a Library of Things.
