Libraries are a wonderful resource in any community, but did you know that most libraries lend far more than just books? It's all about knowing what to ask for!
Here are some common items that libraries have for patrons to borrow. If you're wondering what treasures you might find available at your own library, just ask at the circulation desk. They'll be happy to help!
1. Instruments
Many libraries offer musical instruments that patrons can borrow. While this isn't a long-term solution for learning to play an instrument, it can be a GREAT way to get your hands on different instruments and see what might best suit you.
2. Bird Watching Kits
An especially fun thing to check out from the library is a bird watching kit. Many times, this will be a backpack stuffed with a pair of binoculars, a good bird watcher's field guide, information about local bird watching groups, and perhaps even bird-themed games or bird identification flashcards.
This is a great thing to have on hand if you're hoping to observe the annual fall migration!
3. Park, Zoo, and Museum Passes
Most libraries offer passes to local zoos, museums, and state parks. These might not get you totally free admission, but usually they'll at least be good for a very substantial discount off the usual ticket price.
4. Cake Pans
Have a birthday coming up? Try checking out the cake pan collection at your local library. This is a really fun place to find different shaped cake pans, including some of those old character shaped pans from the 80's!
Strawberry Shortcake themed birthday, anyone?
5. Snow Shoes
If you think you might enjoy snowshoeing, but want to try it out before investing in a good pair, consider borrowing some from the library!
This is also a good solution if you own your own snowshoes, but need an extra pair or two, for out-of-town guests on a winter weekend.
6. Games and Puzzles
Getting bored with contents of your game closet? Mix it up by bringing home some new games or puzzles from the library. It's also a great way to try new games before shelling out $30 or more on a brand new board game.
My kids found a new "best, most favorite" game at the library this summer, and now it's on our family Christmas list, because we know it's a real winner.
7. Book Club Discussion Sets
If you're wanting to start a book club, but feel nervous about keeping the conversation going, ask your library if they have any book club kits. This can be a great way to know you'll never run out of thought-provoking prompts.
8. STEAM kits
Many libraries offer "STEAM" kits that families can borrow, for doing things like building a roller coaster or solar-power robot. What a great way to spend a weekend!
9. Telescopes
Telescopes can be pricey, but don't despair about getting a great look at the stars. Telescopes are one of the most common "non-book" items that libraries lend, and borrowing one is a good way to get kids hooked on star gazing.
10. Fishing Rods
Especially in rural areas, it's not uncommon to be able to check out good fishing poles from your library. Often sponsored by a local sporting club, they may come with tips for fishing, and even best places to go fishing as a family in your area.
11. 3-D Printers
Dying to get your hands on a 3-D printer, but aren't quite ready to invest in one yet? Some libraries have these available for patrons to borrow, and may even offer classes on how to use it!
12. Tools
Especially if you're just starting out, you might not have all the tools you need for small home repairs. Before spending money that's not in the budget to go out and buy tools, consider checking your library to see if you can borrow what you need.
13. Seeds
Many libraries offer "seed lending libraries" where you can take what you need, and donate what you don't. Especially if you have a small garden and don't need huge amounts of seeds, this can be a really fun way to try some new varieties.
It's also a great place to donate seeds from your own seed-saving projects. These little seed packets are free to print, if you need a way to store and share them.
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Anna Chesley is a freelance writer living a homestead lifestyle, with a special love for family travel, old books, vintage skills, and seaside living. In addition to founding Salt In My Coffee, she runs the website, New England Family Life, as well as The 1800's Housewife, a website devoted to re-creating authentic 1800's recipes.
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