Want to start, or boost, a Library of Things in your community?
We’ve teamed up with Crowdfunder & Viridor to launch a brand-new programme for community groups.
Whether you’re setting up your first sharing library or looking to upgrade & sustain the one you already have, we’ll support you with everything from raising funds to running it more smoothly.
Together, we’ll help your library thrive – so more neighbours can borrow, not buy.
Our vision
A sharing library in every neighbourhood in the UK
Ten years ago we started as a tiny community project in a South London shipping container.
We've been so excited to see the movement spread across the UK, Europe & beyond.
While hundreds of groups run quality sharing libraries that provide a much-needed service, we know from experience that funding, space & know-how can be real barriers.
That’s why we’ve created this programme – to make it easier for communities like yours to start strong, & for existing groups to take things to the next level.
Fundraising support
Launch or relaunch a Crowdfunder campaign with hands-on help from the Crowdfunder & LoT teams to raise funds & spread the word
Affordable tools
Discounted access to our proven software & locker systems, designed to make running a sharing library simple & sustainable – even with small teams & budgets
Training & coaching
Practical guidance on everything from daily operations to reaching new borrowers, drawing on 10+ years of LoT experience
Join a cohort of like-minded groups at different stages of the journey – from first launch to long-term sustainability. Together, we’ll learn, share & grow. You’ll benefit from:
What you’ll get as part of the programme
Inspiration visits
See other Libraries of Things in action, meet fellow pioneers & learn what works
A supportive community
Be part of a growing UK-wide movement making borrowing better than buying
“Library of Things have been great partners! The platform is simple for our borrowers to use.”
– Becky Harford,
Co-Director, Benthyg Cymru
From Wivenhoe to Wales, groups are using this support to start, strengthen & sustain their libraries. Will your community be next?
Who can apply?
If you're interested in applying take a look at our criteria before you apply.
-
Based in a England town or city
-
A formally constituted organisation (CIC, charity, non-profit, or similar), operating for at least 12 months
-
A suitable location already identified (or advanced discussions in place)
-
Committed to setting up or expanding a sharing library using LoT’s systems, software, know-how or our self-serve lockers (lockers are optional - our software also supports staffed shops & mobile sharing libraries)
-
Applicants should show:
-
That you’re rooted in your community, with evidence of demand for a sharing library (e.g. a petition, a Whatsapp group, a series of gatherings you've hosted)
-
A credible delivery plan (e.g. timescales, how items will be sourced, maintained & repaired)
-
A host space available for the sharing library (check out our criteria for spaces here)
-
Willingness to run a Crowdfunder campaign, with our support
-
How you’ll use the Library of Things platform &/or lockers, or how you’d like to collaborate with Library of Things to bring a sharing library to their neighbourhood
-
-
Backing from a local authority, housing association or anchor organisation
-
Experience with repair cafés, tool libraries or other circular projects
-
Existing relationships with funders or sponsors
-
A team with complementary skills (community, technical, logistics etc.)
-
Interest in measuring & sharing impact
-
A track record of engaging under-served groups (e.g. low-income, minoritised, isolated communities)
-
-
Groups operating solely for private profit
-
Projects not planning to use any of the systems or software developed by social enterprise Library of Things (we are supportive of all of the systems out there - but this offer is to support those interested in working directly with us
-
Applications without a potential host space, community support or delivery capacity
-
How to apply
Applications are now closed for this Programme
👋 Thanks for your interest in joining the Library of Things Community Launchpad & Fund. Whilst applications are currently closed, you leave your email address and we'll let you know when it reopens.
Any questions?
If you have any questions, reach out to rebeccawetten@libraryofthings.co.uk