FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Library of Things?
Just like the library in your town which loans out books, our Library of Things lends various useful items to its members. We charge a small fee to cover our costs such as insurance and item maintenance, and many of the ‘Things’ have been donated by people in the community.
When is it open
COLLECTIONS AND RETURNS MONDAYS 9-4PM, THURSDAYS 9-4PM AND FRIDAYS 9-4PM, SATURDAY 9-MIDDAY ONLY
What makes us different from a traditional hire shop?
There are a few differences between a hire shop and a LOT. Firstly, the Walton on Thames Library of Things based at the Eco Hub in Walton is non-profit with all money raised going towards covering costs and improving our inventory of items rather than a commercial business which aims to make money for profit. Secondly, the Walton on Thames Library of Things contains a wide range of ‘Things’, including many that a hire shop would not stock, such as a chocolate fountain. We also loan ‘Things’ out for much less money than a hire shop would, making it more affordable to many more people.
How do I become a member?
In addition to registering online you also need:-
- To be at least 18 years old
- To have an email address. We use this to send you receipts and important information about your loan.
- You must sign the Liability Waiver during the online sign-up process.
- You must bring at least one form of photo ID that has your current full time home address with you when you first use us. We will save a copy of this onto the LOT secure server to identify you for future loans.
How do I pay for membership and loans?
You can pay for your membership and make your loan donations either by cash or card. For card payments, we use a payment processing provider called SquareUp. SquareUp is a PCI Service Provider Level 1, which is the highest grade of payment processing security.
How much does it cost
Our standard membership is incredible value.
We want to encourage everyone in the community to borrow more and buy less. For this reason we have set an incredibly low single standard joining fee of £10.
How many items can I borrow
All members have the opportunity to reserve up to 5 items at any one time. There is no limit on your annual borrowing.
Do I need to live in Elmbridge to use the LOT?
No. You can come from as far as you like, though you may have a LOT/share shed more locally, so do check before making the journey. One thing to consider is that all items must be collected and returned to us. We do not have a delivery service.
The Fairness Rules
- We want the LOT to work for everyone, so please bring your loan back on time. If you do not, you may be charged additional payments.
- Bring your item back in the same condition as when you borrowed it. We don’t want to spend valuable time, money and resource cleaning/repairing items due to neglect.
- Tell us immediately if you find a problem with the ‘Thing’ you have borrowed. Please do not use it if it is broken and or dangerous to use.
- Make sure you know how to use the ‘Thing’ properly. Please ask for help before you leave The Hub, and read the instructions provided. ***Remember you are the only person permitted to use the item.***
