Need a toolkit, tripod, speaker, charger, desk fan or some study equipment? Borrow it from the Library just as easily as you borrow a book.

That’s the idea behind the Library of Things, an exciting new service from the University of Surrey Library. The project was originally proposed by final-year Economics students Eden Earnshaw and Yuki Chen, whose innovative idea won the Library’s inaugural Next Chapter Challenge Competition.

What is the Library of Things?

The Library of Things is a collection of practical items that students can borrow when they need them, without the cost, storage space or commitment of buying them.

Whether you’re working on a project, preparing for an event, trying out a new hobby or simply need something for a short period, the Library of Things will give you access to useful equipment when you need it most.

What could I borrow?

The collection is being developed based on student suggestions and currently includes:

• Toolkits. sewing kits, baking kits, garment steamer
• Extension leads, cables, mini-projector and travel adapters
• Laptops, whiteboards, desk fans, desk lamps,  presentation and study equipment
• Tripods and ring lights
• Small event equipment for student societies
• Table tennis, tennis and badminton sets, football and basketball, foldable chairs

We’ll continue to explore additional items that can help make student life easier, more affordable and more sustainable.

Why are we doing this?

The Library has always been about sharing resources and providing access to things that help you learn, create and succeed. The Library of Things takes that idea one step further by offering access to practical items that many students only need occasionally.

The winning proposal particularly impressed the judges because it recognised the challenges many students face with the cost of living while also supporting sustainability by encouraging sharing rather than purchasing new items.

Created by Students, for Students

One of the most exciting things about the Library of Things is that it came directly from student feedback and creativity.

The Next Chapter Challenge Competition invited students to submit ideas to improve Library services, spaces and the wider student experience. After reviewing a range of fantastic proposals, the judging panel selected the Library of Things as the winning concept.

The next time you need something, you might not need to buy it, you might just be able to borrow it from the Library.

Have an idea for an item you’d like to see included in the Library of Things? We’d love to hear from you at library@surrey.ac.uk