Bring your broken household items to Guildford’s Repair Cafe—volunteers fix electronics, lamps, and more while helping the environment.
Guildford Repair Cafe: Fixing More Than Just Items
Every third Tuesday of the month, the Guildford branch of Surrey Libraries transforms into a buzzing hub of creativity and problem-solving. From 6 to 8:30 p.m., volunteers roll up their sleeves at the Repair Cafe, offering free fixes for just about anything—though donations are always welcome.
“We fix anything you can possibly imagine,” says Rob Hollins, a Guildford resident and one of the event’s dedicated volunteers.
Last month, the lineup of repairs included everything from a delicate glass oil lamp glued back together to electronics with replaced sockets and plugs. “We’ve handled computers, vacuum cleaners, toaster ovens, irons—you name it, we try to fix it,” Hollins adds.
Saving Money and the Planet, One Repair at a Time
Repair Cafes aren’t just about convenience—they’re about sustainability. By fixing instead of replacing, participants save money and reduce waste. According to research by Steve Privett at the University of Surrey, a single repair can prevent up to 24 kilos of CO2 emissions, highlighting the environmental impact of these grassroots efforts.
Founded in the Netherlands in 2009, Repair Cafes now number over 2,500 worldwide, creating a global movement against planned obsolescence and overconsumption.
How to Join the Repair Fun
Participants are encouraged to email surreybcrepaircafe@gmail.com with a description of what they want repaired. “If we know what’s coming, we can be better prepared,” Hollins says. Some repairs take longer than others, so guests are asked to submit one item at a time and rejoin the queue if necessary.
Meet the Volunteers
The Guildford event thrives thanks to a tight-knit team of volunteers, including Hollins, Andy Manhardt, and retired home-economics teacher Claudia Rivard, who specializes in clothing repairs.
“Our team is smaller than Vancouver’s, but we handle the same variety of items,” Hollins explains. Around six to eight fixers work each event, often with additional support from local computer repair groups.
At 80 years old, Hollins continues to lead by example, volunteering not just at the Repair Cafe, but also at REC For Kids in Newton and as an electronics technician at MCC Thrift Store. “I love to fix things. It’s about giving back,” he says, beaming.
More Repair Cafe Events in Surrey
Surrey hosts additional Repair Cafe sessions, including at Alex House in Crescent Beach. The next event is scheduled for October 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. For details, visit facebook.com/RepairCafeSouthSurreyWhiteRock.
Whether it’s a broken toaster, a lamp in need of glue, or a favorite jacket in need of mending, Guildford’s Repair Cafe proves that a little care, skill, and volunteer spirit can make a big difference—for your wallet and the planet.
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