On 31 May 2024, the first Library of things in Cyprus "Library of things" was inaugurated at the physical space of the library at 16-17 Liasidou Street in Nicosia.
The inauguration was performed by the Mayor of Nicosia Mr. Constantinos Yiorkatzis and the Mayor of Strovolos Mr. Andreas Papacharalambous, in the presence of representatives of local authorities, municipal officials, representatives of government departments, environmental NGOs, collective systems, media and other stakeholders.
The lending library of objects and the online platform for lending the objects has been in operation since December 2023 and is operated voluntarily by the KyklOIKOdromio, with the support of Strovolos Municipality. It is one of the actions of the operational innovative proposal for circular economy, which was submitted by the NGO Cyclokodromo and awarded in the framework of its participation in the European project U-SOLVE ("Urban sustainable development SOLutions Valuing Entrepreneurship)" funded by the European project ENI CBC MED.
The initiative encourages sharing and sustainability by providing access to a wide range of items that people may only need occasionally. The concept aims to reduce consumption, promote collaborative consumption and build a sense of community. Libraries of objects have gained popularity in cities and communities around the world as a way of promoting sustainability, community engagement and resource sharing. They contribute to a more collaborative and less resource-intensive lifestyle.
The aim is to promote a circular economy and reduce overconsumption and the accumulation of items we do not use. It is based on the principle of "borrowing rather than buying" and contributes to reducing environmental impact. These items can be anything and generally include DIY tools, garden machinery, kitchen appliances, camping equipment, event equipment and general useful household items.
For more information call 22667795, 22667758, https://circularlibraryforall.org/ , info[at]circularlibraryforall.org