Prime Highlights:
- The library’s Library of Things program allows residents to borrow tools, electronics, and educational items, making resources more accessible to the community.
- The initiative is designed to support learning, recreation, and everyday family needs, beyond traditional library materials.
Key Facts:
- Patrons need a library card active for at least six months to borrow items, with most loans lasting seven days and select items up to 30 days.
- The collection includes unique items such as electronic storytellers for children, telescopes, garden tools, and an anatomically correct skeleton for nursing students.
Background:
Kurth Memorial Library is continuing its Library of Things program, which lets community members borrow more than just books. The collection includes items such as telescopes, garden tools, electronics, and educational resources.
Library Manager Julie Massey explained that the program gives people the chance to borrow things they need only occasionally or cannot buy on their own. She noted that more libraries are offering similar programs to make these items accessible to the community.
The collection features unique items, including “Tony boxes,” electronic storytellers for children, and an anatomically correct skeleton named Slim, used by nursing students. “Slim doesn’t get checked out much, so we dress him up,” Massey added with a smile.
Launched last summer with no initial budget, the program is now seeking funds to expand its offerings. The library also welcomes donations of both items for the collection and seeds for its free seed library, with contributions from local supporters, including Tractor Supply.
People who have had a Kurth Memorial Library card for at least six months can borrow items, usually for a week, while some can be kept for up to 30 days. All items are checked out at the front desk. Massey said the program aims to support the community by providing not only learning and recreational materials but also practical items that help families in daily life.
