Libraries across the worldwide are transforming themselves by lending a variety of items beyond books and movies. This movement, known as the "Library of Things," allows patrons to borrow everything from practical tools to musical instruments, making expensive or rarely-used items accessible to everyone. This shift from content consumption to experiential learning is changing the very definition of a library.
American Libraries: A Unique Focus on American Dolls
In the United States, a number of libraries have launched innovative lending programs that feature American Girl dolls.
These programs go beyond simple playthings by using the dolls and their accompanying books as tools to teach history, encourage reading, and engage children in a hands-on learning experience.
- How the Program Works: The dolls are often lent out in a kit that includes the doll, a carrying case, a journal, and the first book from the doll's historical series. For a one or two-week loan period, a child can take the doll home to read her story and write about their own adventures in the journal, which is then shared with future borrowers.
- A Living History Lesson: The American Girls dolls are a centerpiece for a living history lesson. As each character is from a different time period in American history. Libraries like the Alexandria Library in Virginia have even connected specific dolls to their own local history. With one doll representing the Colonial Era and another commemorating a historic Civil Rights sit-in.
A Worldwide Movement: Libraries of Things Around the World
The "Library of Things" concept is growing internationally, with unique and innovative lending programs emerging in various countries.
- UK, the Canada Water Library of Things in London allows people to borrow items like carpet cleaners and projectors, while other locations in the UK and Germany, such as Leihbar Bonn, focus on tools, camping gear, and kitchen utensils to promote a circular economy. The Stadtbibliothek Bremen in Germany offers everything from stand-up paddleboards to ice cream machines.
- France: The concept extends to specialized libraries, such as an "instrumentothèque" in France, a library specifically for lending musical instruments.
- Australia: While many libraries in Australia focus on lending books and digital resources, some have started to explore tool and toy libraries. Connecting with the larger worldwide trend of resource sharing.
- Canada: The Banff Public Library in Alberta offers a diverse "Library of Things" collection. Including tools, digital equipment, and hobby items, to help residents save money and reduce waste.
A Library of Unexpected Items
Some of the most popular items in these "Libraries of Things" are often the most unexpected. Here are a few examples:
- Telescopes: Public libraries in cities like Portland, Oregon, and Tucson, Arizona, are part of a program that allows people to check out telescopes. This gives amateur astronomers and curious families a chance to explore the night sky without a significant investment.
- Musical Instruments: The Ann Arbor District Library in Michigan provides patrons with the opportunity to borrow a wide array of musical instruments. Including guitars, ukuleles, and even an alto saxophone.
- Home Improvement Tools: Many libraries have established tool libraries that lend out everything from drills and saws to ladders and power washers. This is a practical resource for people who need to complete a single project but don't want to buy the equipment.
- Kitchen Gadgets: Some libraries offer specialized kitchen appliances for checkout. Such as a pasta maker, a dehydrator, or a cake pan set. This allows home cooks to try out new recipes without having to clutter their kitchens with expensive gadgets.
- Art and Hobby Supplies: Libraries are also expanding into the creative arts. By lending out things like sewing machines, knitting needles, and even unique crafting kits.
This shift in library services demonstrates a commitment to serving communities in new and innovative ways. These programs not only save people money but also promote a more sustainable way of living by encouraging sharing and reducing consumption. We must Save Our Libraries!