Borrow instead of buying: Drill from the library - Germans ditch buying for borrowing as sharing economy booms

A growing number of people in Germany are choosing to borrow items instead of buying them. Libraries and private initiatives, like the Borrowing Club in Bremen, now offer everything from power tools to VR headsets. This shift reflects concerns about cost, space, and the environment.

The Borrowing Club in Bremen provides over 150 items for loan, including standing tables and electric window cleaners. Members access the shared inventory 24/7 through a dedicated app. Many who join the club highlight sustainability and community spirit as key motivations.

Libraries across Lower Saxony have also expanded their services beyond books. Thermal imaging cameras, power tools, and VR headsets are now available for borrowing. Janina Hempel of the Lower Saxony Library Center notes a clear rise in interest in this borrowing model. People cite several reasons for preferring loans over purchases. Limited funds, lack of storage space, and a desire to reduce waste all play a role. The trend suggests a broader move towards sharing resources rather than owning them.

The demand for borrowed goods continues to grow, supported by both public libraries and private clubs. Items once considered niche, like VR headsets and power tools, are now part of everyday lending. This approach offers practical solutions while cutting costs and promoting sustainability.