The British summer is passing fast, but there’s still time to enjoy a BBQ in the garden, kids’ birthday parties, and outdoor adventures. But there is one nagging question: do you really need to buy all that summer gear?
We get it! The cost of summer fun can add up – buying everything brand new can also feel overwhelming (and expensive). That’s why more and more people in Oxford are choosing to hire from the Library of Things at SHARE Oxford (or another of the growing number of hiring or borrowing options in the county). It is a simple idea but smart for your wallet: hire what you need, when you need it, and return it when you’re done.
Inspired by your Adventures
We love hearing how hiring from our Library of Things helps create unforgettable summer memories. Take Katherine and her family on their camping trip to the Lake District: they borrowed a bike rack, a camping stove with gas canisters, and sleeping mats. “I honestly felt stunned, then increasingly excited at the different types of gear on offer from the Library of Things. We had the best weekend exploring nature, all possible thanks to SHARE Oxford!”, said Katherine.
Philippa used our tablecloths for a family birthday, then came back for hotplates and saucepans to host a winter gathering. “Such a brilliant, practical service!” – Philippa said.
These stories show the heart of what we do: helping you save money, reduce clutter, and help Oxford become a bit more sustainable.
Our Top Summer Hired Items
These are the most hired items from our Library of Things in the past two months. Maybe these could inspire you to plan your next summer activities!
- Gazebo: Essential for a UK garden party – rain or shine. Our gazebos helped with Julia’s party for her mum’s birthday.
- Bunting: Add some unique handmade colour to your party.
- Carpet and upholstery cleaner: Give your home a freshen up before guests arrive.
- Strimmer: Perfect to get the garden neat after No Mow May.
- Pressure Washer: Get your patio, deck, or garden furniture sparkling clean and guest-ready before a get-together.
- Tarpaulin: Ideal for camping, festivals or projects.
- Drill: DIY essential for your home or garden project.
- Projector: How about a movie night for friends and family?
- Garden game: Perfect for birthday parties or community events – we have lots of classic garden games available!
- Board game: Host a chill game night with friends.
Ready To Hire This Summer?
From birthday parties to camping holidays, or just enjoying the last of the summer sun, we’ve got you covered with our Library of Things! We have all sorts of categories to hire that you might not imagine, from a ukulele, electric hand mixer, to a popcorn maker!
- Browse our Collection: View our Library of Things catalogue
- Reserve Online: Book the dates and items you need.
- Collect or Arrange Delivery: Pop into our friendly base at Makespace Oxford, 1 Aristotle Lane, Oxford OX2 6TP, or we can deliver it to you with Velocity Cycle Couriers.
Choose to borrow, not buy, and enjoy a greener and smarter choice for your wallet and our planet with SHARE Oxford. And do get in touch – we always love hearing your stories of summer adventures with the kit you hired from us!
