How it works

Through a local Library of Things, sharing can work for everyone. Whether you want to borrow things you’ll only use every now and then, or try before you buy, or want to try something new, then becoming a member of Share Bristol can help you.

Have a look at our library catalogue to see our full range of things you could borrow. For the details of reserving, borrowing and returning see our members agreement (it’s not hideous legal clauses!).

Please expand the headings below to read more. We welcome your comments and feedback.

Reserve

In order to reserve things you need to first join the library. This includes paying for an annual membership and having your ID verified.

Once a member, head to our library catalogue where you can:

search for a specific thing, or browse for inspiration
read about the thing to check it’s right for you
check availability
reserve the thing for a week of your choice

Borrow

Visit the library to collect your reserved thing(s) from the collection point. You’ll be sent an email to remind you that will contain your reservation number.
Check the thing(s) over and ensure you’ve picked up all the parts and accessories (if any).
If you need a bag then please do ask.
We really like to see our things in action and share this with the Share Bristol community (including on social media and online), so if you’re happy with this please do send us photos and videos of the things in action.

Return

On or before the return date, please return the thing(s). You’ll be sent an email reminder. If you do need to keep the thing(s) for a bit longer and no-one else has reserved it then you can extend your borrowing for another week.
Please ensure you return all parts and accessorises, ready for the next borrower. Otherwise you may need to pay a late or replacement fee.
Please do give feedback – how you got on, if there’s anything we should know abut the thing, if anything didn’t go according to plan. That way we can learn and fix anything before the next borrow.