PEOPLE in Stourbridge are being asked to get behind a cost-effective and eco-friendly lending scheme proposed for the town.

The Stourbridge Library of Things aims to provide an alternative to owning infrequently used items such as power tools, kitchen appliances, and camping gear.

Volunteers are now urging residents to register their interest in the project, using their support as crucial evidence to secure funding.

By borrowing rather than buying, residents can save money, free up space at home, and contribute to reducing landfill waste.

Helen Bramall, Stourbridge Library of Things co-ordinator, said: "We believe the Library of Things will be a fantastic addition to Stourbridge, providing residents with access to a wide range of items without the financial burden or storage issues. This is a community effort, and we need the support of our neighbours to bring this vision to life."

Residents are being asked to show their support for the initiative to help make it a reality.

To find out more and show your support go to https://www.libraryofthings.co.uk/heatmap/stourbridge

The proposal has gained the backing of councillors including Wollaston and Stourbridge Town councillor Andrew Tromans who said "One of the many reasons I am proud to call Stourbridge home is the vibrant eco-system of sustainability and climate initiatives here.

"I believe having a Library of Things would complement the repair and reusing facilities we already have in the town and provide low-cost access to useful household items. Personally, I am always borrowing my dad’s electric drill.

“My ward colleagues and I fully behind this project and will do what we can to support those who are working hard to bring a Library of Things to Stourbridge.”

Volunteers from the established Stourbridge Repair Café, which opens at St Thomas’s Church on the last Saturday of the month, have backed the Stourbridge Library of Things proposal.

Lawrence Rowlett, Stourbridge Repair Café volunteer, said: “A Library of Things would be a great asset for the people of Stourbridge.

“The success of the Repair Cafe shows there is dissatisfaction with buying new when a broken item can be repaired.

“We have limited time at our repair sessions, for items that need more attention we find some people are willing to have a go at home once we have diagnosed the problem and outlined what needs to be done. However, we sometimes find they lack the tools to make the repair.

“A Library Of Things would enable them to borrow the appropriate tools and get the job done.”