The Library of Things is a collection of non-traditional materials including gadgets, tools, games, kits, electronics, and more — all available to check out for free with a library card. Need something for a one-time project or want to try before you buy? Explore the collection and discover your next new Thing to borrow!
Who can borrow a Thing
Due to the unique nature of these materials, only full-service, adult library cardholders may borrow an item from the Library of Things collection. A full-service library card is available to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Berks County and can be used to access digital media services, submit inter-library loan requests, and borrow physical items from library collections (including Library of Things). You can learn more about full- and limited-service library cards by visiting the Get a Library Card webpage.
How to borrow your Thing
All items from the Library of Things collection must be picked up at and returned to the owning library during open hours. Items will not travel through the van delivery service. You can see which library owns the Thing you're looking for by clicking the item in the catalog and scrolling to Availability.
Place a hold request making sure to select the owning library as the pick-up location (you'll receive an error message when selecting a different library). Each library sets its own loan time for their Library of Things materials. Please confirm the lending time when borrowing your Thing. We understand some Things require additional time beyond the first lending period, so all Library of Things materials have the option to renew one time for an additional lending period. Owning libraries may on occasion allow patrons to borrow more than one item or choose to extend a due date.
How to return your Thing
Full-service, adult cardholders from any Berks County Public Libraries location may borrow items from the Library of Things collection at any library location; however, all Library of Things items must be returned to the owning library where the item was originally borrowed from. Make sure all contents are placed back inside the box/container, and bring your Thing to the library's circulation desk.
Items from the Library of Things collection may not be returned through the library book drop.