What is a library of things (LoT)?
A collection of items that library patrons can check out for free with your library card, which expands the definition of traditional library materials like books. Our current categories include tools & equipment, health & wellness, fun & games, and technology. There are all types of great reasons for someone to use items from a LoT: if you only need an item for a little while, if you want to try out an item to see if you like it or how it works, or if you have limited space and don’t want to store it. Why buy when you can borrow?!
How many items are in the things library?
So far, we have approximately 60 items here at MPL, but we are looking forward to adding to this collection each year space and budget allow.
What’s the process to borrow something from the things library?
You have to have an Ocean State Libraries library card, which can be used at any library in Rhode Island! These items are available at the Middletown Library only – they can’t be sent to another library or placed on hold. They also can only be returned to our library, and must be checked out and checked in at our Main Desk with our staff so that all the contents can be reviewed.
How long can I check things out from the things library?
Most items are a 7 day checkout, but some are for 21 days. Soon our existing Rokus, Mobile Hotspots, and Fishing Equipment will also be moved into the 21-day Library of Things Collection along with our Launchpads. Each Thing will say on it how long the checkout is for.
Where did the idea for the thing library come from?
The library of things movement is a growing trend in public, academic, and special libraries in many countries. There are also free-standing organizations separate from libraries, such as tool libraries, toy libraries, community sharing centers, independent non-profits, and individual initiatives. The term ‘Library of Things’ was popularized by a grassroots experiment started in London in 2014, themselves inspired by Toronto Tool Library.
How were the things library items selected?
We looked around at what other Things were circulating at other libraries here in Rhode Island as well as in Massachusetts and Connecticut. We also crowdsourced from the staff what Things they would most like to borrow. We have a long list of items we weren’t able to get yet – some due to space, some due to cost, and some due to the type of items and how we’d be able to care for the Things here in our library. For example, some libraries circulate cake pans, instant pots, and air fryers. As we do not have a dishwasher, we did not feel comfortable currently with adding anything to our LoT that would potentially need to be placed into a dishwasher.
Where will the things library be housed at 700 West Main Road?
Our library is very small, so you can see them right from the main desk at the entrance past the computers.
Is there an item in the things library that you’re most curious or interested in seeing whether it’s borrowed?
I’m most interested in seeing if the giant reusable check is used by local organizations, groups, and charities when they make or are given a monetary donation. I hope we get tagged in their photos if they post them on social media!
So, I checked out the things library and an item I think should be there isn’t. How do I go about making a suggestion?
Space is at a premium, so for now, we don’t have much room to add to this collection. We also want to evaluate the current Things and see how well the various categories are doing. If you have an idea for a Thing you’d like to see added in the future, please email us at staff@middletownlibraryri.org or mention it to a staff member at the main desk. We also will accept donations of Things, providing we have the space and need for them, as long as they are in new or barely used condition and come with all the parts and instructions.
Note: Some of our Things are too large to fit into the current display, please ask at the desk for the Things you are not seeing.