Library of Things

The Library of Things has arrived!

The Library of Things is a hands-on collection that lets you explore, create, and discover—beyond books. Borrow items like telescopes, drill kits, ukuleles, kids' floor puzzles, and more from participating libraries. Individuals with resident and non-resident cards can now begin to place holds on items using your library card.

To borrow from Library of Things, you must be a Resident Account holder or have purchased a Non-Resident Fee account. The collection is not available for ConnectCards, Reciprocal, Limited, or Teacher accounts.

Patrons may checkout 2 items at a time, and 2 renewals are allowed if there are no holds on the item.

The Library of Things is made possible through ongoing generous support from The FVRL Foundation.

Check Out Full Collection

Engaging with the Library of Things

I want to check out something.

Who can borrow?

How will I be able to check out items?

Can I checkout items for same-day use?

What if I return something damaged or dirty?

We ask that all Library of Things items be returned clean and in the same condition you received them.

If an easy-to-clean item is returned dirty, a cleaning fee may be charged. The fee is $10.
If an item is lost or damaged beyond repair, you’ll be responsible for the replacement cost as listed in your account.

If something happens during your checkout, let staff know when you return it—we understand that accidents can occur, and early communication helps us keep the collection ready for everyone.

I have a purchase suggestion.

Have an idea for something to add to the Library of Things? Tell us what you’d love to borrow!

Please note: a library card is required to suggest a purchase.

Suggest a Purchase

How to Fill Out the “Submit a Suggestion” Form for the Library of Things

Want to suggest something for the Library of Things? Here’s how to fill out the form quickly and correctly.

First page:

Title: Write the name of the item in this field (example: sewing machine).
Author, Performer, or Director: List the brand or manufacturer (example: Singer). If you do not have a preference, simply put NA.
Publication Year: Enter the model year, or use the current year if you're not sure.

Second page:

Format: Select "equipment."
Audience: Choose who it's for.
Content: Select "undetermined."
Language: In most cases, leave as "English."
Notes: Add any details that help us understand your suggestion (e.g., multiple stitch options).

Third page:

Review your entries. If everything looks good, submit your suggestion.

Why do I need a library card to submit a suggestion?

I want to donate an item.

Have something useful, creative, or just plain fun to share? Let us know what you’d like to donate.

Thank you for helping our collection grow!

Tell Us About Your Donation

FAQs: Donating to the Library of Things

Can I donate items to the Library of Things?
Yes! We welcome suggestions and donations of new or like-new items that support learning, creativity, or everyday projects.

How do I donate an item?
Fill out our online Donation Form with your item details. We’ll review it to see if it’s a good fit for the collection.

What kinds of items are you looking for?
Durable, reusable items—like tools, musical instruments, science kits, or hobby equipment—that are safe and easy to share.

Are there items you can’t accept?
We may decline items that are too large, hard to clean, costly to maintain, or not in good condition.

Will I be notified if my item is accepted?
Yes! Our team will contact you once we’ve reviewed your submission.

Audio, Visual, and Musical things

Baking things

DIY things

Kid's things

Outdoor hobby things

All the things

The Library of Things is supported by generous funding from the FVRL Foundation. As the library’s nonprofit partner, the Foundation raises community support to expand facilities, programs, and innovative services beyond what traditional funding can provide.

Learn more about the Foundation >

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