Need a tent for one weekend, or a sewing machine for one job? Bellingen Shire residents will soon be able to borrow it instead of buying it, when The Bowerhouse Library of Things opens at Raleigh on Saturday, 14 November.
Launched by Bellingen Shire Council with support from MidWaste, the new library will give locals and people from neighbouring regions access to useful tools, equipment, and household items, without the need to buy them new.
The opening lands during Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week, from 9 to 15 November.
Bellingen Shire Council Acting General Manager Todd Williams said the library is a wonderful opportunity for the community to take an active part in reducing, reusing, repurposing, and recycling.
“Located at the Raleigh Waste Management Centre, the Library of Things works much like a traditional library, but instead of borrowing books, members can borrow items they may only need occasionally, such as garden tools, camping gear, kitchen equipment, sewing machines, outdoor games, audio-visual equipment, musical instruments, and event supplies,” Williams said.
“The Library of Things complements the existing Bowerhouse Community Reuse Shop at the site, offering another way for the community to access useful items, share resources and support a circular local economy.”
Locals have already jumped on board. Bellingen Shire Council Group Leader of Sustainable Environment and Waste Sam Tate is impressed by the enthusiastic response, with community members offering donations and volunteer hours.
“The Library of Things makes it easier for our community to share resources, avoid unnecessary new purchases, and reduce the environmental impacts associated with producing and disposing of new items,” Tate said.
But the shelves still need filling, and helping hands are wanted.
“Community members are invited to help establish and grow the collection by donating suitable items in good, working condition,” Tate said.
“The project is also seeking volunteers to help welcome borrowers, manage loans and returns, organise and check donated items, and keep the collection in good condition.”
“People with practical repair skills, equipment knowledge, administration experience or an enthusiasm for reuse are encouraged to get involved.”
The first big chance to donate is just days away.
“We’re holding a Community Drop-Off Day on Sunday, 8 November from 9am-12pm at Maam Gaduying Park for people to drop off anything they would like to donate,” Tate said.
“Examples include tools, appliances, office equipment, camping gear, event supplies, lawn games, musical instruments, sewing equipment, AV equipment, cleaning equipment, and mobility/accessibility aids.”
“If you can’t make it to the drop-off day, donations can also be delivered to The Raleigh Waste Management Centre during opening hours.”
So whether you have a useful item gathering dust at home, a few hours to spare, or simply want to borrow rather than buy, there are plenty of ways to be part of it.
Opening details:
- The Bowerhouse Library of Things opens on Saturday, 14 November.
- It will open on Saturday mornings from 9am to 12pm.
- It is at the Bowerhouse Community Reuse Centre, Raleigh Waste Management Centre, 146 Shortcut Road, Raleigh NSW 2454.
To find out more about donating items or volunteering, email siobhan@thefullcirclecollective.com.au, or visit the Bellingen Shire Council website.
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