A #distributedlibrary is basically just a group of people that agree to lend things to each other.

That's it. Using the software, anyone who is a library member can search what has been made available for #lending, and can mark items available for lending as well!

Returns are handled just like you would borrowing a tool from your neighbor - you bring it back, you both mark you did on the app, and assuming no damage the item is ready to loan out again!

But a couple problems still exist - how do I setup libraries, especially for things that don't currently have libraries, like #tools

Well, you can go the traditional route - find a space, and make it a #library. #meansofproduction means that you will have software to help you with this ready to go!

But spaces are expensive, particularly in #urban environments. So MoP also supports a newish idea, #distributedlibrary .

So what is #meansofproduction?

MoP is open source software being designed to power libraries. It has two key features - the ability to create a #distributedlibrary, and the ability to #federate between many different libraries.

We'll handle each of these items separately, then dive into the tech stack, status, and later features!

If you'd like to get involved, please let me know!