Case Studies

Linlithgow Community Development Trust visit to Edinburgh Tool Library

Working with established networks for better engagement

A tool workshop

We discussed all points around the learning outcomes. The main takeaways for both outcomes 1 and 2 are that working with established community groups who are already embedded in the geographical/related subject areas are a great way to gain buy in from communities and also to act as an intermediary when gathering requirements and assessing if a location is suitable for expansion. Information on workshops was useful in terms of practical/logistical arrangements, and made us think about how we could offer a range of workshops to our members as well as to the general public.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the benefits and best practice around running projects that are inclusive of adults with learning disabilities/additional support needs.
  • Explore the ‘Hub and Spoke’ model for expanding sharing services – what are the obstacles and considerations for identifying suitable locations.
  • Understand the success ETL have enjoyed around providing workshops – both the financial benefits and the knock-on effects this may have on TL membership and community engagement.

"We were impressed by the logical and organised layout of the TL space, and by the positive signs and the code of conduct for the members. Chris' knowledge is excellent and I know that the volunteers that accompanied me on the exchange have several ideas they can incorporate in Linlithgow. I am going to be following up with Chris about some work the ETL do on demographic surveys, in order to better understand how we engage with a wider audience."