Borrowing is not new, nor are libraries. Fast consumerism meant these fell somewhat out of favour over the last couple of decades as we found ourselves captivated by the joy and convenience of being able to buy new, at lower prices. Lower prices then, has meant a higher price now, our environment.
Borrowing is making a resurgence, for a number of reasons. Sustainability is probably the first big reason that comes to mind. There is also the cost of living and the rise of larger populations in smaller concentrated suburbs where storage is a premium. And perhaps there is a little bit of ‘cool’ coming back to the idea of an item borrowed, speaks volumes about the resourceful, community-minded, and sustainable human that made that decision.
But let’s peel it back for second and think about some of the personal benefits, perhaps things that you didn’t envisage, when you decided to see what life was like in the 70’s where borrowing and neighbourly exchanges were commonplace. The pandemic brought hobbies back into the mix, to necessitate a clear delineation between work and home life. Knitting clubs everywhere have popped up in schools no less, adult colouring in and paint-by-numbers’ popularly is booming. Jigsaw puzzles are back on Xmas present wish lists – weren’t they always cool? (Jigsaw puzzle lover here). In an age where wellbeing is at the forefront of what a balanced life looks like, projects unrelated to work have seen retailers like Bunnings and Spotlight enjoy record profits.
If you were like me, during the pandemic, this drove a whole new type of consumption. Learning how to bake bread, adding to my already impressive collection of jigsaw puzzles, board games to introduce to younger family members, gardening, DIY projects that you finally couldn’t run from anymore. Unfortunately, this often meant buying new online.
Facebook low waste and free sites are also marvelous for passing on something you no longer want but in terms of convenience, these are opportunistic, you have to wait until you see something that you might like, instead of knowing you can secure an item relating to an immediate project or task. They absolutely do have a place in our community and I am a regular user of them but I find them most useful in passing items on.
When I discovered The Sydney Library of Things, it had been running for just over two years, in my own local community no less. Given my passion for sustainability, I thought I would reach out and volunteer. The concept was simple and made so much sense – why buy, when you can borrow? A lot of these pandemic past-times were just that. Past times. Experimental, to encourage family togetherness and to break the monotony of the limitations we were experiencing. However, some stuck. Born of that were things I rediscovered, new things I learned and now, I had a cost effective way to keep doing it. No more consideration for outlaying income on something that may not be enjoyed and what to do with the item, after we no longer wanted to use it. The best part was no additional burden on the environment.
So fast forward two months and I am a member working with our amazing Founders to spread the word about The Sydney Library of Things. While sustainability and community are driving forces, there’s more to borrowing than meets the eye. Let’s delve into the lesser-known perks that might just change your perspective.
- Unexpected Community Bonds: Joining the borrowing community isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s about finding a tribe of like-minded individuals. Amidst the chaos of modern life, being a part of a group committed to sustainability brings a sense of belonging and purpose. At The Sydney Library of Things, I found solace in knowing I wasn’t alone in my quest for a greener lifestyle. It’s not just about borrowing; it’s about building meaningful connections and collectively striving for a better tomorrow.
- Family Connections Reinvented: Borrowing isn’t just a solo endeavor; it’s a family affair. The simple act of borrowing sparks conversations within households, igniting excitement and creativity. From planning themed parties with borrowed items to embarking on adventures, families bond over shared experiences. Witnessing kids engage in the tangible world beyond screens adds an invaluable dimension to family dynamics, fostering memories that last a lifetime.
- Time Saved, Regret Avoided: Borrowing isn’t just about saving money; it’s about reclaiming time and avoiding buyer’s remorse. The convenience of borrowing eliminates the need for extensive research and the risk of investing in items that may not suit long-term needs. Personally, borrowing a bread maker was a revelation. While the allure of freshly baked bread was enticing, the reality of limited space and commitment dawned after borrowing. No regrets, no wasted hours—just the freedom to explore without the burden of ownership.
Ready to experience the joys of borrowing? Follow us on Facebook or Instagram, or explore memberships for as little as $7 a month and discover a world of possibilities. With locations in The Coal Loader, Waverton, and our new premises in Lane Cove, embracing a sustainable lifestyle has never been easier. Share your borrowing stories in the comments below and join us in redefining consumption, one borrow at a time. Happy borrowing!
