Sling libraries are popping up all over the country to help parents and parents to be, which is fabulous news! They exist to help parents to distinguish the differences between slings and ensure that they purchase something they are going to find comfortable, safe and get full usage out of. We hear so many stories of people buying a sling as recommended by a friend or that they have seen advertised, only to get it and find it doesn’t work for them, is uncomfy or difficult to use. That is one of the many reasons why we are here; to let parents try on many types of sling and help them find one that works for them, without the financial inconvenience! Others reasons include rental for holidays (airports and holiday spots aren’t always buggy-friendly!), rental for the newborn period (birth to 6 months), and even experienced sling users use our service just to try out something different!
Each library works essentially in the same way; the library starts with a few slings which they loan out to customers for a small rental fee. Once those slings have been rented out a few times, more slings can be purchased with the loan fees received and so on. Many manufacturers offer us the chance to buy slings at special library rates, and very occasionally a manufacturer donates one to us. So essentially, the more hires we do the bigger and better your library will get!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the North London Sling Library?
The Sling Library is run by a team of volunteers – Becky, Jacki and Angela at the Bloomsbury branch, and Andreia, Lisa, Iyshea and Ellen at the Enfield branch. We attend each session and set out all the slings and information. You are free to look through the slings as you please and if you feel confident, can try them on without our assistance using the demo dolls provided.
What help can I get at the library?
Becky, Jacki, Angela and Andreia are qualified sling consultants, and Lisa, Iyshea and Ellen are qualified sling peer supporters. We are able to teach basic usage of the slings we have in the library. As library sessions are usually very busy we are unable to go into great detail about the slings, but will always ensure that you know how to use the sling comfortably and safely before you leave.
What if I need to get advice and time trying on several different slings?
If this is the case, it may be best for you to visit a local sling consultant. A consultation is a very detailed one on one session where you get full instruction on as many different carriers as you want for as long as you need. You can find a list of all of the sling consultants in London here. Of course if this is the case and for whatever reason you’re not able to book a consultation, you are still more that welcome to come along to the library and we will help as much as we are able, even over repeated visits.
How do I hire a sling from you?
Please see this page: http://www.northlondonslings.co.uk/how-to-hire-a-sling/
How long is the hire period?
We hire out our carriers for a standard 2 week period at the Bloomsbury branch, and for one month at the Enfield branch. At our Bloomsbury branch we also offer a special 3 month deal on stretchy wraps and Caboos. You can extend the hire once the initial period is up, as long as no one else has reserved the carrier. For more information on extending your hire, please see the T’s & C’s.