Library of Things

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

A Library of Things is a collection of non-standard items for patrons to check out that is hosted at a library. The things include, but are not limited to, arts and crafts, bakeware/kitchenware, board games and recreational kits, event/party equipment, home equipment (e.g., VHS to DVD converter, therapy light), musical instruments, science/technology kits and tools.In 2019, Clackamas County’s Office of Sustainability and Solid Waste (SSW) and the Library Information Network of Clackamas County (LINCC) partnered to bring a Library of Things (LOT) to eight public libraries. The libraries collaborated to identify items the public wants, and developed budgets and plans for packaging, cataloging, circulation, risk mitigation and other matters to ensure a similar high quality experience for users at each library. The LOTs opened on September 23, 2019, and nearly 2,800 items were checked out over the next four months. Surveys showed 94% of patrons were satisfied or very satisfied with the LOT, and 99.5% planned to borrow again. In addition, patrons said LOTs enriched their lives by helping them:•Try an item they were considering buying (26%)•Avoid buying an item only needed once or occasionally (25%)•Save money (23%)•Learn a new skill (15%)•Build connections with others (10%)