Explore My Posts! Discover the Community Library Offering Fashion Rentals!
London, Paris, Milan … and now Oswestry, Shropshire, where a soothing shared wardrobe initiative invites you to visit the library and leave with a refreshing outfit.
Lizzie Dibble envisions her clothing lending project as a way to nurture both community engagement and a love for secondhand fashion, all within the calming walls of a library. “There’s something magical about the library,” she reflects. “It’s not an intimidating boutique or the bustling high street. I’ve had people share that sometimes shops can feel overwhelming, but we want this space to be welcoming and accessible to everyone.”
Established in 2023 as With Love From …, the project began simply, encouraging clothing swaps among friends and family. As interest blossomed alongside generous donations, it evolved into a space where creativity flourishes through sewing workshops, discussions on sustainability, and a service dedicated to repairing garments.
Recently registered as a Community Interest Company, Dibble has transformed the shared wardrobe into a heartwarming new home at Oswestry library, supported by the kindness of volunteers and community initiatives. The collection has grown to about 400 carefully curated pieces, which can be checked out like treasured books, for three weeks at a time. Each garment carries a label with the name of its donor, adding a layer of history and nostalgia. “It enriches the experience of preloved clothing, making it feel even more special,” shares Dibble.
While rental apps for fashion find their place in the world, the library offers an entirely different experience – tactile, inclusive, and heartfelt. The unique concept of “libraries of things” is becoming popular, yet With Love From … stands out as a serene space where clothing finds new life.
“I love being able to explore without the worries of price tags; it allows me to discover items I might overlook in a traditional store,” shares Bhavini Mirza, a trainee textiles teacher. “It’s all about the connection with the fabrics and the joy of experiencing them firsthand.” Dibble agrees, noting that the shared wardrobe promotes a mindful respect for clothing. “We embrace a relaxed atmosphere; there are no fines for little mishaps. Our priority is to keep all garments out of landfill – worn or damaged pieces find new life in our workshops, where students transform them into something beautiful.”
The current collection leans towards women’s wear, but Dibble dreams of inclusivity. She hopes to explore options for various demographics, including workwear for those on lower incomes. Exciting plans are underway for a collection aimed at teens for prom season and a delightful selection of dressing-up clothes for World Book Day in March.
Looking ahead, Dibble envisions an uplifting network of shared wardrobes across Shropshire libraries and beyond. “If it thrives in Oswestry, I believe it can blossom in other communities too,” she expresses, filled with hope.
For now, Dibble finds joy in witnessing the happy connections people make with garments. “When someone picks up a piece I once cherished and exclaims, ‘I love this!’, it gives me goosebumps. It’s a truly beautiful moment.”
Photography: Sarah White / With Love From …
