Waiting List Types

When someone borrows an item, other neighbors may still want a turn with it. A waiting list decides how they line up. Each library picks the style that fits its community when it is created, and new libraries default to First Come, First Serve.

First Come, First Serve

Neighbors are offered a borrowed item in the exact order they joined the waiting list. This is the default for new libraries.

How it works

  1. When an item is already borrowed, a neighbor can add themselves to its waiting list.
  2. The list keeps everyone in the order they signed up.
  3. When the item is returned, it is reserved for the first person in line for a few days so they can pick it up.
  4. If that person does not claim it in time, the item moves on to the next neighbor.

Good for

  • Most libraries — it is simple, predictable, and feels fair to everyone.
  • Popular items where neighbors are happy to wait their turn.

No Waiting List

The library does not keep a waiting list at all. When an item is returned it simply becomes available again for whoever asks first.

How it works

  1. Borrowed items show as unavailable, with no option to reserve a spot in line.
  2. When an item is returned it goes straight back to being available.
  3. Neighbors check back and borrow it whenever it happens to be free.

Good for

  • Small libraries or plentiful items where waiting is rarely needed.
  • Communities that prefer to keep things informal.

More types on the way

We are exploring additional waiting list styles — such as a quadratic waiting list that balances turns more evenly across the community. They will show up here as choices once they are ready.

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