On Wednesday 12th June, Share Bristol welcomed the people of Bedminster, Southville and beyond to our new Library of Things on East Street, located in the St Catherine’s Place shopping precinct. The Bedminster Library of Things is now the only occupied shop in the shopping centre, as the rest of the area is being redeveloped.
Joe Sims, of BBC Bristol was invited to cut the ribbon – but jokingly insisted he would only do the deed if he could cut it with giant shears. These were provided, as we have several pairs to lend out, but it turns out they aren’t really suited to cutting thin ribbon! He finally managed to chop through it though, to huge cheers from the assembled onlookers, who then trundled into the Share Bristol Bedminster to feast on goodies donated by Essential, Loungers and Bristol Beer Factory, with extras funded by Barcan and Kirby.
Around 70 people turned out to inspect the new location, bringing much needed life to the heart of East St.
We hope that Bedminster’s Library of Things will become the first place people think of going when they need something for around the house, garden or for a trip, but also that it becomes a true hub for the community – bringing people to the area for a variety of activities centred around sharing things, resources and knowledge.
Share Bristol Bedminster already has around a couple of hundred Things available, and more are being added every week. Many people assume that Share Bristol is primarily a tool library, but actually carpet cleaners, gazebos and pressure washers are just as popular as DIY tools.
The biggest thing donated to the charity so far is a roof box for a car, whilst the smallest is probably a tiny allen key.
We would like to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who has helped us get to this stage and get our second Library of Things location open – too many people to list, but we are grateful to you all.
