'Brilliant' new Library of Requirements scheme praised by MP

The Library of Requirements, which opened last month and is based at Croxley Business Park, allows members to borrow everyday items such as household essentials, DIY tools and hobby equipment for a small annual membership and borrowing fee, following the model of a traditional library.

During a visit to the new venture, MP Matt Turmaine found out how the scheme works and also donated a 5ft set of giant Jenga.

The tower tumbles with neither MP Matt Turmaine, or Library of Requirements volunteer Vic, able to retrieve the situation. (Image: MP Matt Turmaine)

"This is a brilliant initiative," he said. "It’s not been open long but is impactful, making a difference and already helping lots of people.

"I was very interested to hear of their story so far. Organisers said they could really do with a Jenga set to loan out and I was delighted to donate one so people can have hours of fun."

During the visit on July 9, MP Turmaine joined volunteers, David and Vic, in unpacking the Jaques wooden block set.

In the music section of the Library of Requirements, David (left) gets some notes out of a tenor horn while Watford MP Matt Turmaine strums a ukulele. (Image: MP Matt Turmaine)

Watford Library of Requirements volunteers said: "We are a community service that encourages sharing of resources. We receive donations that we then enable our members to borrow rather than buy items they may need.

A Jenga set is the new addition to the Library of Requirements and was donated by Watford MP Matt Turmaine (left) to volunteers David and Vic (Image: MP Matt Turmaine)

"It may be tools for a DIY project, camping, gardening and any useful item that encourages people to do the projects they want."

The continued: "We’ve enjoyed getting this off the ground and have had such positive support from all the people we've met along the way. We thank Matt for his generous donation we think giant Jenga will be a winner as the summer progresses."

The team are also seeking volunteers and more members to lend items, which are needed to grow the library.

Watford MP Matt Turmaine admires the ‘Turmaine tower’ Jenga set he donated to the Library of Requirements to provide “hours of fun”. (Image: MP Matt Turmaine)

"During this hot weather it has been suggested that an ice-cream maker would go down well," they added. "We look forward to welcoming new members and increasing our loans to people within the local community."

The library is open on Thursdays from 4pm to 7pm and on Saturdays from 9am to 12pm. Opening hours are expected to expand as more volunteers join.