What is the Gardening In Action Tool Lending Library?

Buying and storing tools can be a real headache for community groups – especially if you only need them now and then (eg for tree planting, or a big clearup). Gardening In Action has been seeking funding to set up a Tool Library, so that community groups can borrow tools on a regular or occasional basis – when they need them.

Who’s the Tool Library for?

The Tool Library is for any community group able to collect the tools from Seaford. Unfortunately we can’t lend to individuals or deliver/collect the tools.

When will it launch?

We’re delighted to have received starter funding from the Next Energy Solar Impact Fund, which will pay for a building to store the tools and some setup costs. The Co-op Community Fund is also supporting us, and we’ll be able to purchase more tools later on this year. We hope to start the Library with a small set of tools in spring 2025.

What sort of tools can I borrow?

We hope to have sets of the following tools:

• garden spades and forks
• hand forks and trowels
• pruning tools – loppers and secateurs
• battery operated strimmers and hedgecutters

We’re particularly keen to purchase adaptive tools which help people with mobility problems, frailties or disabilities to enjoy working outdoors and gardening.

How can I borrow some tools?

We plan to set up a simple online booking and collection system via this website. In the meantime, please get in touch with us directly. We can only lend tools to community groups, not to individuals.

Can I donate my old tools to the library?

Unfortunately, at the moment we aren’t able to accept donated tools.

To find out more or let us know your thoughts, please get in touch – we always love to hear from you!