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The Library of Things (LoT) is an alternative lending program established at the Lake County Public Library in August 2020 through generous grant funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Library of Things features kits available for checkout: patrons can learn to knit, play an instrument, or learn about STEAM-related topics such as coding and science. Kits will include the materials necessary to learn a skill as well as relevant books and/or movies. The Library of Things also has kits that are intended to give patrons access to different healthy living experiences: for example, birdwatching (including a book on techniques, species identification, and binoculars), hiking (including maps and safe hiking guidelines), light therapy (including mental health information and a lightbox to treat Seasonal Affectedness Disorder), or playing disc golf (including discs to play with and a map of local courses). This lending program will meet immediate needs in the community for meaningful and educational activities that are in line with COVID-19 health regulations, and additionally, mobile hotspot kits will meet a direct community need for internet access.

 Our lending kits will allow patrons to borrow materials and books curated to increase:

• Exploration, learning, and creativity

• Literacy in technology, science, and information 

• Maintenance and repair of items

• Learning and practicing new skills

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services grant. The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and X.