Ever heard of a tool library? How about a gear library? The BMC would like to invite its members to take part in a survey to see what we can do to make accessing gear greener and more affordable than ever before.

Take the survey now

Having the latest gear will always have its appeal, but living in a throw away culture with a constant obsession for the new is destroying the planet. But there is a better way. Gear libraries could be a greener more affordable solution, that not only provide us with what we need, but also strengthen our sense of community.

The idea for Gear libraries is based on the tool libraries which have been popping up in communities all over the world. Tool libraries, like Liverpool Tool Library and Buy Nowt LS6, take over a space to store anything from lawn mowers, to sewing machines, bike pumps to pasta makers. They are run by volunteers and work just like a normal library, where members of the community can borrow and return any object they need.

Similar to a tool library we would like to set up BMC Gear Libraries across the UK.  Starting with a few trial locations the BMC would like to invite volunteers interested in setting up a gear library in their area to fill out a short survey to gather more information on spaces and resources.

Libraries would be hosted in a publicly accessible space such as a shop, community hub or venue and managed by volunteers. Gear donations would be welcomed from BMC members and commercial partners, and the libraries would be accessible to BMC members, local community groups and BMC partners.

Gear on offer would include objects such as waterproof jackets and trousers, maps, compasses, walking poles, climbing shoes, walking boots and mountaineering equipment. Unfortunately we will not be able to host safety critical technical climbing equipment such as ropes and karabiners at the gear libraries.

If you’re interested in setting up a gear library in your local area, please fill out our survey and we will be in touch!

Take the survey now

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