Cancer patients, or those suffering from alopecia or other conditions that lead to hair loss, are able to rent a wig from the library. The wigs cost more than $400 but are rented for just $35.

"They can give it back whenever they like," said Sue Kuter, a McGrath Foundation nurse who has been working at the wig library since its inception more than five years ago.

"When we start to run low we purchase more. Sometimes when we get them back they've been worn so often we can't rent them again. We have a generous benefactor who has given us more money when we've needed it."

The library, which was started following a suggestion from a patient, has been based at Hogan's Pharmacy on Sale Street since it began, however it is hopeful of moving shortly to new premises at the Bloomfield campus. "It will be just perfect," Mrs Kuter said.

The wigs are bought online, and are synthetic for easy washing and air drying.

"They're all different colours and styles," Mrs Kuter said. "They're easily washed, and you air dry them, ready to use straight away, and they don't need any styling."

She said younger renters tended towards longer wigs, while older people preferred a shorter wig.

Mrs Kuter is putting the call out to people who might like to donate time helping patients try on different wigs.

"We're looking for people who have time on their hands and is maybe a hairdresser or beautician or somebody with an artistic flair to help a person look their best.

"Anyone can come and stick a wig on someone's head, but then some of the relatives come and say 'I've never seen my relative look like that and it's actually quite awful'. We want people when they come to the wig library to end up looking great."

With enough volunteers, Mrs Kuter hopes to be able to open the new library as a five-day-a-week, appointment-only operation.

The library also rents hats.

"Some people don't really want to wear a wig, but they haven't found any stylish hats that will cover up the evidence they don't have any hair," Mrs Kuter said. "We've got very stylish felts hats, summer hats, winter hats and soft caps."

For more information on using the library or volunteering phone 6369 3968 or email susan.kuter@health.nsw.gov.au.

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