The Library of Things is part of a growing movement among public libraries to move “beyond books.” At the Aurora Public Library District (APLD), our Library of Things collection has grown to include something for everyone, at any stage of life, with whatever talent level they possess. From musical instruments and sewing machines to camping gear, games, and STEM learning kits, this ever-growing collection invites you to explore, learn, and create in new ways.
APLD has been offering non-traditional items for checkout for some time (learning kits, hotspots, and fishing poles to name a few), but the collection has really expanded in 2025. “It has been one of my goals to update the collection, and this year it seems that the stars aligned in a way to bring it all together,” said collection services manager, Miranda. “Having a gaming themed Summer Reading Adventure prompted us to make sure we had the board games ready, and at the same time we were partnering with SciTech to add six new STEM kits to our collections.” Whether customers are borrowing items like these to enjoy family time or checking out tools to learn new skills and solve problems, the community has embraced the collection with open arms.
From January 2024 to now, usage of the Library of Things collection has almost doubled! The reason for this increase is twofold. “While my department was working on adding more items to these collections, the Circulation and Marketing Departments were working on new displays to help library users more easily browse all the ‘things’ we have to offer,” added Miranda. At the Santori Library and West Branch, visitors can look at the prominent wall displays near the Circulation Desks that showcase the various items available at a glance (our Eola Road Branch will have a similar display after the renovations are complete). “A customer once saw all the items we had for checkout and exclaimed, ‘you’ll be loaning out cars next!’” recalled circulation manager, Yiota. “It made us laugh – and, I don’t think we’ll go that far – but the possibilities are endless!”
What does the future hold for the Library of Things? “We’re hoping to add more games and kits in languages other than English,” added Miranda. “Soon we are also adding two Deluxe Bingo sets that come with the rotary cage, Bingo balls and cards for up to 50 people to play Bingo together. My grandma had a very similar Bingo set and would bring it to family parties where we would play together for little prizes (and bragging rights, of course). My grandma passed away a few months ago, and I find it comforting to think that through my work on the Library of Things I may be helping other families have fun together and maybe even start their own traditions.”
As public libraries grow and change, our Library of Things shows just how much we’re listening to what our community wants. In fact, many of our newest items came straight from staff and customer suggestions, which makes the collection feel even more personal. Whether it’s something useful, something fun, or something totally unexpected, there’s truly something for everyone. To browse our Library of Things collection and place a hold, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/libraryofthings or contact the library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.