Share Bedford’s Library of Things is marking its official opening this weekend (Saturday, 14 June), celebrating community sharing and sustainability.
As part of the celebrations, Share Bedford is hosting an Open Morning to mark its official launch at Bedford Central Library this Saturday, with a special address by the Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire – Dr Elisabeth Slack.
The event is taking place The Great Big Green Week, raising the profile of local efforts to reduce waste and build community.
Visitors are invited to enjoy free cake and cold refreshments, explore the wide range of items available to borrow, and find out how sharing everyday things can help both the planet and your pocket.
Share Bedford, located on the second floor of Bedford Central Library, is a community-run lending library – but instead of books, you can borrow useful household items like tools, camping gear, kitchen appliances, DIY equipment, and more.
“It’s all about making it easier to borrow rather than buy,” said co-founder Susan Throssell.
“Whether you’re curious, want to join, or just fancy a slice of cake and a look around, come along to our Open Day and see how sharing can make a difference.”
To celebrate the launch and Great Big Green Week, all members can borrow items for free between 7–14 June.
Green councillor, Lucy Bywater (Castle Ward), said: “As Greens, we’re really pleased to see the official launch of Share Bedford in the library.
“This scheme is one of those win-wins for locally addressing the cost-of-living crisis and the problem of waste.
“Borrowing instead of buying items which are just occasionally needed can save people a lot of money, is much more sustainable in terms of less stuff being produced and thrown away and also reduces the need for storage space at home, especially for residents in smaller flats.
“We hope as many locals as possible will make use of it. Well done to the Share Bedford team of volunteers!”
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture at Bedford Borough Council, said, “We are proud to support this initiative and provide Share Bedford a space to operate.
“It’s wonderful that local people now have the opportunity to borrow such a vast range of items for just £1 a week, and of course to browse the shelves of the library and borrow a book for free when they visit.
“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to reducing waste, improving sustainability, and making practical resources accessible to everyone in Bedford Borough.”
