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Did you know the Winchester Public Library offers more than just books? They’ve got an entire collection of non-traditional items available for borrowing, known as the Library of Things (LoT). Instead of buying something you might only need once, why not borrow it from the library?
Planning a beach day? Skip the store and borrow a metal detector and beach tent from the library. Got a home improvement project? Check out the wall scanner and laser level kits. Want to try a new recipe? The InstaPot kit is just a click away.
And for your next party, be sure to check out the “most fun” item in the LoT: the Party in a Box.
“It comes with sound-activated disco lights and a light-up Bluetooth boombox,” says Head of Library Technology & Information Services Craig Smith, who curates and maintains the LoT. “I’d have fit in a folding dance floor if we had the space. The karaoke machine is a close second.”
The library started the LoT in 2020 to help patrons explore household items and technology without spending money. The concept of lending non-traditional items has been trending in libraries for years.
“It started with lendable equipment like cassettes, VHS tapes, and record players in the 70s and 80s,” explains Smith. “The Berkeley Public Library has had a tool library for many years — they were pioneers in lending items and equipment.”
Borrowing from the LoT is not just convenient, it’s also great for the environment. The LoT helps to cut down on the production and disposal of seldom-used items, contributing to a more sustainable community.
“It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and clutter,” says Christine Amatrudo, assistant director at the library. “Instead of buying a tool you might use just once or twice, you can borrow one and then return it.”
Only Winchester residents can reserve items, but other Minuteman Library patrons can borrow items in person if available. LoT items must be picked up and returned at the Winchester Circulation desk, and there's no charge to borrow them. However, full replacement costs will be charged for unreturned items.
Want to snag the most popular items? Act fast!
“Our hotspots and Nintendo Switches are almost never on the shelves!” says Amatrudo.
Explore the Library of Things here.
