FAQ
Where is BG Arts Library of things?
BG Arts Library of things is based at Llanhilleth Institute Meadow street, Llanhilleth, Abertillery, NP13 2JT.
We are open between 10.30am – 12 noon every Tuesday – you can find us in the community café.
How will I borrow?
In order to borrow, you will need to create an online member account on our website [BG Arts Library of things / Llyfrgel o Bethau Celfyddydau BG] or pop in to see us at Llanhilleth Miners Institute (see opening times above)
You need to be age 18 or over, have an email address and agree to our terms and conditions when you sign up.
The first time you borrow an item, you will also need to bring in photo ID such as a driving licence or passport.
How long can I hire things for?
The hire period for all items is one week. If you need a longer-term hire, please get in touch to discuss.
What if I can’t return my item on time?
Get in touch with us and let us know the reason as we will need to change the details on the website and inform members that have reserved the item, we can be flexible with this.
Will you show me how to use my item?
Our Librarians will do their best to help with questions about using the items. Please remember it’s your responsibility to use the items safely and without damaging them. We provide instruction manuals with each item, and where we find useful guides and videos, we add these to the item listings. Please let us know if you find good online resources or have tips we can add to our listings to help others.
Do I have to pay to join?
You do not have to pay to join.
Is this thing guaranteed to work?
We test everything works and is safe before hiring out. That said, things do sometimes break down and in this case we would of course apologise and ensure the item is not available to loan until it is fixed and safe to use.
How do you ensure the items are safe to use?
We have brilliant PAT-test trained volunteers with a range of fixing skills, so our items are regularly checked and tested.
Items are listed with their manuals wherever possible and we also include details about PPE recommended by the manufacturer where appropriate, to ensure borrowers have the same safety information about an item that they would get if they were buying it.
What happens if the thing breaks while I’ve borrowed it?
We, of course, ask that you only use items as intended and follow instructions. You will be liable for damages caused through misuse. However, we are aware that sometimes things just wear out or break unexpectedly. Please get in touch if something breaks and we’ll have an honest conversation about it and agree whether a contribution towards the replacement cost is appropriate.
Why borrow rather than buy?
Sharing the things we only use now and again cuts down on clutter, is more affordable, brings people together and is kinder to our planet
Do I have to pay to borrow?
During our launch and trial period, items can be borrowed free of charge.
How do I donate an item?
We are not currently looking for donations, but we can advise what and how to donate at other premises.
Who is running this project?
BG Arts is the Arts Development Service for Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council. We aim to support, promote and celebrate the arts in Blaenau Gwent. By working with residents, artists and partners we hope to create a vibrant, imaginative and ambitious arts sector in the borough.
The Environment and Regeneration / Waste Strategy and Prevention team for Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council work to reduce waste and encourage sustainable practices such as borrowing and recycling.
The team has supported BG Arts in the development and funding of the Library of Things platform.
This project is funded by SPF Welsh government funding.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! We’re always looking for more volunteers to help us run smoothly.
By volunteering, you are not only helping your community, you will also have an opportunity to develop new skills and broaden your own horizons. We recognise and value those who have a wide range of hands-on practical and inter-personal skills. We will need a committed team of volunteers to deliver and maintain a high-quality and reliable service.
Volunteers will be given an induction and ongoing support, as well as the opportunity to select a role to which they feel most suited.
Some of the skills we need to sustain BG Arts Library of things include the following:
- Hosting / Reception / Front of House (Helping members borrow things)
- Social Media (Shouting about how awesome BG Arts Library of Things is and what we have to offer)
- Administration / Organisation (Helping keep us super streamlined and efficient)
- Repairer / Fixer / Tester (Work together to troubleshoot, fix and maintain our things)
If you’re interested, drop us an email bgartslibraryofthings1@gmail.com and we will come back to you as soon as possible.