Youth Services Playbook

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More Than Books: Why Public Libraries Are Investing in Library of Things Collections

By

Ms. Adrienne

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When many people think about libraries, they still picture shelves lined with books.

Books remain central to library service—but modern public libraries have become so much more than that.

Today’s libraries provide access to technology, educational opportunities, recreation, creative exploration, workforce support, community gathering spaces, and resources that help reduce barriers for everyday life. One of the most visible examples of this shift is the growing popularity of Library of Things collections.

A Library of Things expands the traditional idea of borrowing. Instead of checking out only books and media, patrons can borrow useful objects that support learning, creativity, recreation, and practical needs.

Depending on the community, that might include tools, telescopes, musical instruments, board games, sewing machines, baking supplies, hobby kits, hotspots, STEAM kits, sports equipment, cameras, and much more.

At its core, the concept reflects something libraries have always done well: sharing resources in ways that make communities stronger.

Why Library of Things Collections Matter

Library collections have always been about access.

For generations, libraries have provided access to information that individuals may not otherwise be able to purchase themselves. Library of Things collections extend that same philosophy to physical experiences and practical tools.

A family may want to try a hobby before investing in expensive equipment.

Someone may need a specialized tool for a one-time home project.

A caregiver may benefit from borrowing educational kits or adaptive resources.

A patron may simply want access to entertainment or enrichment without additional financial burden.

These collections help libraries:

  • Reduce financial barriers
  • Support environmental sustainability through shared use
  • Encourage experimentation and lifelong learning
  • Promote equitable access to experiences and resources
  • Expand how communities think about library service
  • Increase visibility and relevance within the community

Libraries have always evolved to meet changing needs. Library of Things collections are one more example of that evolution.

What Can Libraries Circulate?

One of the most exciting aspects of Library of Things collections is that there is no single model. This is when getting to know your community and building those relationships matters most! Survey your patrons to see what they need!

Collections will often reflect local priorities, demographics, available storage space, socioeconomic status, and community interests.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Tools & Home Improvement

Many libraries circulate practical household items that patrons may only need once or twice.

Examples:

Hobby & Creative Exploration

These collections allow patrons to experiment before making a purchase.

Examples:

Outdoor Recreation

Libraries are increasingly supporting outdoor access.

Examples:

Technology Collections

Technology lending remains one of the fastest-growing categories.

Examples:

Family Entertainment & Learning

These collections are especially popular in public libraries.

Examples:

  • Board games
  • Video games
  • Museum passes
  • STEM kits
  • Sensory kits
  • Early literacy kits

Libraries Already Doing This Well (Explore Their Collections)

If you’re considering building a Library of Things collection, many libraries publicly showcase theirs online.

Indianapolis Public Library – Library of Things

Boston Public Library – Library of Things

Des Moines Public Library – Library of Things

Putnam County Public Library – Library of Things Catalog

Framingham Public Library – Library of Things Collection

Exploring existing collections can help libraries understand organization, packaging, circulation methods, and patron communication.

Starting a Collection Without a Large Budget

One of the biggest concerns libraries raise is funding.

Library of Things collections can start small and grow gradually! Some libraries launch with only a handful of items and expand over time.

Potential funding sources include:

Friends of the Library Groups Friends organizations often support visible, community-facing initiatives.

Community Foundations Many local foundations prioritize projects focused on education, access, sustainability, and community wellness.

Civic Organizations Groups such as Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis, and Lions Clubs may support tangible community projects.

Local Business Partnerships Potential partners include:

  • Hardware stores
  • Craft stores
  • Sporting goods stores
  • Garden centers
  • Technology retailers

Businesses may donate products, discontinued inventory, or provide discounts.

Community Wish Lists Consider publishing a public donation list. Patrons frequently have lightly used hobby items or tools they no longer need.

Grant Opportunities to Explore

For even more info on funding, check out my post on grants, HERE!

Policies Matter: Examples from Libraries Already Doing This

Launching a Library of Things collection without policies can create challenges quickly. They help protect staff time, improve consistency, and set expectations.

Topics to consider include:

Eligibility Requirements

Examples:

  • Minimum borrower age
  • Library card in good standing
  • Residency restrictions
  • Signed agreements

Loan Periods

Examples:

  • 7-day checkout
  • 14-day checkout
  • No renewals for high-demand items

Return Procedures

Examples:

  • Return to service desk only
  • No book drop returns
  • Staff inventory verification required (for a time saver, consider using a scale to weigh items with many pieces!)

Cleaning & Inspection

Examples:

  • Staff checklist at check-in
  • Missing parts documentation
  • Sanitization procedures

Replacement Policies

Examples:

  • Replacement fees
  • Component replacement schedules
  • Repair processes

Liability Language

Examples:

  • Borrower responsible for proper use
  • Library not responsible for misuse
  • Equipment-use acknowledgements

Libraries with publicly available policies include:

Reading established policies can save significant time during implementation.

The Challenges

Library of Things collections are not maintenance-free. But really, what is?

Common challenges include:

  • Storage needs
  • Inventory tracking
  • Staff processing time
  • Cleaning and repairs
  • Missing parts
  • Replacement costs
  • Liability concerns
  • Cataloging complexity
  • Marketing and public awareness

Libraries considering these collections should evaluate staff capacity, operational workflows, and long-term sustainability before launching.

But there’s another challenge that often gets overlooked: making sure people actually know these collections exist.

One of the biggest surprises in library work is realizing how many people still picture libraries exactly as they remember them decades ago—quiet buildings filled with books and little else. They may have no idea their library lends board games, hotspots, baking pans, tools, telescopes, museum passes, toys, instruments, technology, or other nontraditional collections.

A Library of Things collection only creates impact if people know it’s available.

That means marketing matters.

Not just a launch announcement—but ongoing visibility. (Read more on that, HERE)

Display items in high-traffic areas. Feature collections on social media. Include them in newsletters. Highlight them during programs. Add signage throughout the building. Train staff to mention them in everyday conversations.

Show people what’s possible.

Library of Things collections do more than circulate objects—they challenge assumptions about what modern libraries can be.

And sometimes introducing someone to a cake pan, a hotspot, or a board game collection becomes the moment they realize the library is so much more than they thought!

Do the Benefits Outweigh the Challenges?

For many libraries, I think the answer has been yes.

When planned thoughtfully, Library of Things collections become some of the most visible and appreciated services libraries offer.

They support experimentation, reduce unnecessary spending, encourage sustainability, and can increase community engagement.

Most importantly, they remind communities that libraries are not defined by format—they are defined by access.

Books remain essential, but libraries have never been limited to books.

Let’s Share Ideas

Does your library have a Library of Things collection?

What are your most popular items?

What surprised you?

What policies worked especially well?

What issues are you having? Maybe we can help!

Share in the comments—I’d love to feature additional examples and ideas in a future follow-up post.

If you enjoyed this post and want to see others like it, check out these popular posts & subscribe to get the newest posts delivered to your inbox!

*This blog is intentionally ad-free. I want it to be a clean, distraction-free space. Here, public librarians can find practical ideas for youth services, outreach, and programming. There will be no pop-ups or sponsored clutter.

Some posts may include affiliate links for books or supplies I genuinely use and recommend. If you choose to purchase through those links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. It’s a simple way to support the work while getting materials for your own programs.

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