Welcome to Benthyg ACE - your local Library of Things!

What is Benthyg ACE?

A place where you can:

• Borrow things you need but don't own
• Donate things you own but don't need
• Meet people to share knowledge and skills with your community

Where is Benthyg ACE?

We're at Dusty Forge, 460 Cowbridge Rd W, Cardiff CF5 5BZ

How do I join? 

Either create your online member account by selecting 'Register' at the top of this page or pop in to see us and we will help you create your membership account. You need to be age 18 or over, have an email address, have a valid debit or credit card that you can link to your account when you sign up and agree to our terms and conditions. 

The first time you borrow an item, you will need to bring in photo ID e.g. either a driving licence or passport and utility bill. You only need to do this once! If you would like more information about borrowing, please email us.

Do I have to pay join?

If you're joining for personal use, there's no charge. If you're joining to borrow items for a community group or business, we'll ask for a small joining fee. 

How do I borrow an item?

1. Join as a Member. You just need a valid debit or credit card and an email address.
2. Reserve an Item. Choose the item you want to borrow. Select the best date and time for you. Pay for the duration you need the item. 
3. Collect an Item. Collect the item from your selected borrowing location during opening hours. 
4. Optional: Get involved! Attend one of our events or join as a volunteer to meet people in your            community.

Do I Have to Pay to Borrow an Item?

Yes, there is a small fee for borrowing which is detailed on all items within the categories on the left-hand side. The fee can be paid with money, time credits, volunteering time or skill sharing. 

We ensure that everyone will be able to borrow regardless of their situation so we have created a Concession membership for borrowers who might not otherwise be able to borrow with us because they are unemployed, receiving government support, on a low income or receiving the state pension. If your situation is not listed here but you would like to borrow, pop in to see us or drop us an email. 

How do I Donate an Item?

We're always trying to improve Benthyg ACE and increase the variety of items for our members to borrow. If you would like to donate something, please drop the item in to us during our opening hours.  

You can donate anything useful and in good condition, e.g. garden tools, camping equipment, kitchen equipment, toys, games, etc.

Who is running this project?

ACE-Action in Caerau and Ely runs this project.  ACE is a community group based at Dusty Forge.

Benthyg ACE is part of the Benthyg Cymru network.  Benthyg Cymru has one simple goal; to make borrowing as easy as popping out for a loaf of bread.

This project is funded by the Landfill Disposals Tax Communities Scheme managed by WCVA.

Benthyg Cymru is managing the mobile element of this project, in partnership with Repair Cafe Wales and Cardiff Council with funding from Welsh Government. To book an event with the electric van, please email mobilecardiff@benthyg-cymru.org.

What does Benthyg mean?

Benthyg (pronounced ben-thig) is a welsh word meaning borrow or lend.

How do I start a Benthyg in my Community?

Benthyg Cymru is always very pleased to hear from individuals or groups that want to start a Benthyg as we aim to help spread the borrowing movement across the length and breadth of Wales.

We have been through the trial and error of setting up a Library of Things in Wales and have now created a toolkit, based on our experience, that will help you not only set up your Benthyg successfully but will ensure it has longevity, a positive impact your community and will save your local residents money.  Drop us an email on info@benthyg-cymru.org and we will get you sorted!