Public libraries are great community resources, but are mostly limited to lending books.
When it comes to being able to borrow other items, the options are more limited.
Unless you live in Point Cook.
The Point Cook Library of Things allows members to borrow all manner of things in much the same way they’re used to doing with books.
“We’ve got gardening tools, accessibility equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers, household equipment, heaters, party supplies,” said library founder Benish Chaudhry listing the items they have on offer.
Based at the Jamieson Way Community Centre, the Point Cook Library of Things came about after Ms Chaudhry read about a similar service in Sydney during lockdown.
At the same time she noticed a number of local Facebook groups where people were giving stuff away stuff for free.
“I noticed these groups were very active, but there’s still a section of the population who are too shy to ask for free stuff that people are giving away,” she said.
“I just thought that for those people there should be some formal library where people can borrow stuff without it being public knowledge.”
The Point Cook Library of Things began in 2022, but now Ms Chaudhry is hoping to spread the word further by offering to waive the usual $50 membership fee.
“We are giving away free memberships for six months to the first 50 people that contact us through the Facebook page,” she said.
“You can borrow as many items as you like for a maximum period of two weeks during that 6 months.”
It’s a great offer, but like all great offers it comes with a catch: you must live in Point Cook.
To take up a free membership or to donate items to the library, visit @pclibraryofthings on Facebook or pointcooklibraryofthings.org.au
Cade Lucas
