Photo: Library of Things
"Communities want hopeful alternatives to consumerism," says Rebecca Trevalyan, a pioneer of the Library of Things, which lets people save money and reduce waste by affordably renting out household items. The idea has grown from a shipping container in south London to seven neighborhood locations across the English capital. People rent hedge-trimmers, carpet cleaners, drills, and other items from as little as £1 a day—about five per cent of the cost of buying items new. Brand partners like Bosch and Kärcher provide the products at low or no cost in exchange for insights into product usage and maintenance. Following a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised almost £375,000, the women-led social enterprise plans to expand to 50 sites across England. "Our high streets need fresh ideas, and communities and councils are serious about coming together around hopeful climate and waste solutions."
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