Wrexham’s new ‘Library of Things’ set to help cut waste and landfill

A volunteer-led organisation is set to launch a new Wrexham ‘Library of Things’ project after being awarded a grant from the water company, Hafren Dyfrydwy.

The funding, which was awarded to Wrexham Clothing Exchange, will be used to set up and provide a not-for-profit rental/hire shop of household goods, tools, and clothes whilst creating a space that teaches the community how to mend broken items through skill share.

The library is set to launch on June 16 when the mayor officially opens Lle Hapus on Eagles Meadow, the non-profit café and community creative event space set up by the trustees of the clothing exchange.

Wayne Price, the Library of Things Project Lead, said about the grant: “I’m delighted about receiving the award, I can’t thank Hafren Dyfrydwy enough for providing the funds to begin the scheme.

“It means we will be able to offer low-cost hires from an acoustic guitar to a workbench and many things in between including bikes, garden equipment, DIY tools, kitchen utensils, etc.

“Opening a Library of Things is important during the current cost of living crisis when even buying an emergency iron can tip people into the red.

“Renting will start from less than 50p per day plus an annual members’ subscription of £1.”

He added: “Borrowing instead of buying makes a difference to the carbon footprint. By borrowing, we avoid unnecessary production, as well as waste ending up in landfill!

“There was a survey a few years ago that found that the average usage for the whole lifetime of a DIY drill was just 13 minutes. Why spend £30 or £40 on something you’ll hardly use and ends up in a bin after 13 minutes of use?

“We also plan to loan out equipment to community groups when not on library hire, thus saving them money also.”

The library will be based out of the clothing exchange’s home, Lle Hapus on Eagles Meadow.

The library is appealing for help on two fronts, it’s looking for any tools, kitchen items, and other donations with the view of refurbishing them to stock at the library.

Any donation accepted will be rewarded with either their annual subscription being refunded or discounted hire fees.

It’s also looking for volunteers who would like to learn and develop a new skill such as PAT testing, repairing equipment, and the administration of its website.

You can contact [email protected] if you would like to donate or volunteer.