Lübeck has quietly launched a groundbreaking initiative that could redefine how cities approach sustainability and resource sharing: a “Library of Things.” This innovative concept—where residents can borrow everyday items instead of buying them—offers a practical solution to overconsumption and waste. The project, now open to the public, marks a significant step forward in Germany’s growing movement toward circular economies and community-driven sustainability.
Announced as part of a broader partnership between the Entsorgungsbetriebe Lübeck (EBL), the Emil-Possehl-Schule, the Friedrich-List-Schule, and the city’s public library network, the Library of Things provides access to 38 items at launch, ranging from outdoor gear and specialized tools to rare electronics like film scanners. The initiative is funded by Lübeck’s Climate Fund, reflecting the city’s commitment to reducing its ecological footprint. For residents, the concept is simple: join the public library (membership is free), browse the collection, and borrow items for a limited time—all without the long-term commitment of ownership.
While the idea of lending physical objects isn’t entirely new—similar models exist in cities like Berlin and Amsterdam—the scale and integration with Lübeck’s existing library infrastructure set this project apart. By embedding the Library of Things within a space already trusted by the community, organizers aim to lower barriers to participation and foster broader engagement with sustainable living practices.
How It Works: A Model for Shared Resources
The Library of Things operates on a familiar framework: members sign up for a free account at the Berufsschulzentrum’s public library, then browse the curated collection of items. Unlike traditional libraries, however, these aren’t books or media—they’re tangible objects designed to meet everyday needs. The initial inventory includes:
- Outdoor equipment (e.g., telescopes, camping gear)
- Hand tools and workshop supplies
- Specialty electronics (e.g., film scanners, projectors)
- Sports and recreational items
- DIY and home improvement tools
Items are available for a predefined loan period, and the system is designed to be low-friction: no complex reservations, no hidden fees. The project’s organizers emphasize that the goal isn’t just to reduce waste but to encourage experimentation. “People often hesitate to buy expensive equipment they might only use once,” says Birgitt Schroeder, director of the Berufsschulzentrum library. “With this model, they can try before they buy—and if they don’t need it long-term, they can return it.”
Key Takeaway: The Library of Things in Lübeck is part of a broader trend in European cities to adopt “sharing economies” as a tool for sustainability. By reducing the demand for new purchases, the initiative aligns with global climate goals, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Behind the Initiative: Partnerships and Funding
The project is a collaboration between four key stakeholders:
- Entsorgungsbetriebe Lübeck (EBL): The city’s waste management company, which has long advocated for circular economy principles. EBL’s involvement ensures that the initiative aligns with Lübeck’s waste reduction strategies.
- Emil-Possehl-Schule and Friedrich-List-Schule: Two vocational schools in the Berufsschulzentrum that have integrated sustainability into their curricula. Students and faculty are actively involved in promoting the Library of Things as part of their education in environmental stewardship.
- Berufsschulzentrum Public Library: The operational hub for the project, providing the infrastructure, staff, and community trust needed to launch successfully.
- Lübeck Climate Fund: The primary funder, which allocated resources to develop the collection and train staff on managing shared-use items.
The funding model is designed to be scalable. While the initial phase is subsidized by the Climate Fund, organizers plan to explore revenue streams such as little loan fees or sponsorships from local businesses in the future.
Why This Matters: Sustainability Meets Practicality
Lübeck’s Library of Things addresses two critical challenges:
- Reducing Waste: The average household discards or underuses a significant portion of purchased items. By extending the lifespan of tools and equipment through sharing, the project cuts down on landfill contributions.
- Lowering Costs for Residents: For many, the upfront cost of specialty items—like a high-quality telescope or a film scanner—is prohibitive. The library model makes these accessible without requiring ownership.
the initiative serves as an educational tool. By demonstrating the benefits of shared resources, it encourages broader adoption of sustainable practices. “We’re not just lending objects; we’re fostering a mindset shift,” Schroeder notes. “If people see the value in sharing, they’re more likely to apply that thinking to other areas of their lives.”
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Replication
While Lübeck’s Library of Things is currently the only one of its kind in the region, organizers hope to inspire similar projects elsewhere. The model is intentionally simple and adaptable, requiring minimal infrastructure beyond an existing library space. Key next steps include:
- Expanding the collection based on community feedback.
- Developing digital tools for reservations and tracking item usage.
- Partnering with other German cities to replicate the model.
- Evaluating the environmental impact of the project through metrics like reduced waste diversion and carbon footprint savings.
For residents of Lübeck, the Library of Things represents more than just a new way to access tools—it’s a tangible example of how cities can lead the charge on sustainability. As Schroeder puts it, “This isn’t just about borrowing a hammer or a telescope. It’s about building a community that cares for its resources—and for each other.”
How to Get Involved
Residents interested in joining the Library of Things can visit the Berufsschulzentrum’s public library to sign up for a free membership. No prior registration is required beyond the standard library enrollment process. For those outside Lübeck, the project’s organizers encourage cities to adapt the model using existing local resources.
Next Steps: The library will host an open day on June 15, 2026, where attendees can explore the full collection and provide feedback. Updates on the project’s progress will be shared via the Berufsschulzentrum’s official channels.
As cities worldwide grapple with the environmental and economic costs of overconsumption, Lübeck’s Library of Things offers a refreshing alternative. By proving that sustainability can be both practical and accessible, the project may well become a blueprint for urban innovation in the years to come.
Have you used a sharing library before? Share your experiences in the comments—or suggest items you’d love to see in Lübeck’s collection!