The Orange County Library System (Website) has launched a new initiative called the “Library of Things,” a collection of non-traditional items that cardholders can check out, in addition to books, movies, and digital resources.
Under the Library of Things, adult patrons with full-privileges library cards can borrow items like citizen-science kits (for activities like biodiversity observation and pollinator tracking with binoculars and guides), fiber-arts kits (knitting and crochet), health toolkits (self-monitoring blood pressure), and recreational gear like disc-golf sets. Some items support educational exploration, others promote new hobbies, and all aim to give patrons access to things they might not otherwise purchase.
Through programs like this, libraries are allowing residents to borrow specialty items rather than buy them, the library reduces waste, lowers cost barriers for learning, and enables people to try new activities without full financial commitment.
Click the link above to see all the things you can check out.
