The document describes Kit-Catalogue, an open source online system developed by Loughborough University to catalog valuable equipment and make assets findable, useful, and accessible. The system allows staff, students, and others to search an inventory of over 800 pieces of specialized equipment across departments and institutions to access items like 3D printers and electron microscopes without needing to purchase their own. Installing Kit-Catalogue at other institutions could maximize sharing and reuse of equipment while reducing costs and environmental impacts from duplicated purchases and facilities.

1. United Kingdom Loughborough University, UK An open source online system to Catalogue your valuable and useful University Kit . M aking your assets findable, useful and used. For your own staff, students and beyond.

2. “ I need access to a 3D printer for my research student. I don’t really want to buy one from my budget and there is nowhere to put it in our department. Ah, thank goodness for the Kit-Catalogue! I know who to speak to, when I can use it and how it’s used.” Thermoplastic 3D Printer Loughborough University, UK Established in 2008 and contains details of 800 pieces of specialist equipment. Bench-top fully automated CHN elemental analyzer. Bench-top sedimentation jar test system.

3. Loughborough University, UK When a number of institutions install and use Kit-Catalogue the possibilities are endless. “ My University doesn’t have the equipment I need. I wonder if I can search for an electron microscope within 50 miles of LE11.” FLICKR @reedster

4. Loughborough University, UK “ WE NEED YOU!” HELP YOUR INSTITUTION or COMPANY By installing Kit-Catalogue Environmentally sustainable benefits include; Reduced need for heating and occupation of additional space within buildings for duplicated equipment. Avoid unnecessary purchasing, manufacturing and shipping of products. Maximise opportunity for re-use of kit locally by HEIs, industry and Small to Medium Enterprises (SME).

5. United Kingdom Loughborough University, UK FIND OUT MORE: http://kit-catalogue.lboro.ac.uk/