Introduction
Vesthimmerlands Municipality will install two sharing stations in two libraries to make practical tools, household items, and leisure equipment easily accessible to local residents.
Location
The two sharing stations will be installed in well-established public libraries that serve as trusted community hubs. These locations were chosen because:
- Libraries already function as safe, accessible, and highly frequented public spaces. Borrowing and returning items is part of their core activity, making the sharing concept a natural extension.
- Existing loan infrastructure is strong. Staff are used to handling registrations, loans, and user guidance, allowing the system to integrate smoothly into current workflows.
- Both libraries are centrally located, easy to reach by foot, bike, or public transport, and offer long opening hours—reducing barriers to borrowing and returning items.
Sharing station types
The pilot will deploy two multipurpose sharing stations, each offering 18 items and operating free of charge. The stations include tools, kitchen equipment, hobby materials, leisure items, and thematic “experience kits” that residents can borrow for everyday tasks or creative activities.
The selection of items was informed by a library user survey, which provided valuable insight into existing user groups, their needs, and their borrowing habits. Residents expressed their wishes for practical solutions, community-oriented resources, and easy access to tools and equipment—needs directly addressed by the new sharing stations.
Objectives
The pilot aims to generate insights into how a library-based sharing station can support sustainable community development. Specifically, it aims to:
- Promote a local sharing economy: Demonstrating that residents can access needed items without owning them.
- Encourage reuse and resource efficiency: Keeping items in circulation contributes to a more sustainable consumption model.
- Strengthen community ties: Libraries act as natural meeting points where borrowing fosters interaction and shared responsibility.
- Develop a scalable model: Experiences from Aars and Aalestrup, combined with learning from international partners, will support a future rollout across the municipality.