A year after launching in Ealing Broadway shopping centre, the Library of Things has seen 672 residents from the borough borrow 886 items – from pressure washers to sewing machines – in a bid to cut costs and reduce waste.
The lending hub, which opened in June 2024, allows Ealing residents to rent out household tools and equipment from as little as £1.50 a day. Its most popular item over the past year has been a carpet cleaner, loaned out 274 times.
Supporters say the scheme has proven both practical and timely, particularly amid a cost-of-living crisis and growing concern about consumer waste. Instead of buying something that will be used once and then stored indefinitely, residents can borrow it, use it and return it.
Figures from Library of Things suggest locals have saved an estimated £184,000 over the past 12 months by borrowing instead of buying — and reduced carbon emissions by 27.3 tonnes, the equivalent of over 100 round trips between London and Edinburgh by car.
They also claim the scheme has kept 9.6 tonnes of potential waste out of landfill.
Councillor Paul Driscoll, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for climate action, said: “The Library of Things is a brilliant example of how small changes can make a big difference. It’s helping residents save money, reduce waste and build a stronger, more connected community. We’re proud to support it.”
