Library of Things

Find items to borrow that aren’t traditionally thought of as library materials. The Library of Things expands our collection's range of materials for borrowing, so that community members of all ages can discover tools and materials to help them explore, learn, create and connect. Our Library of Things builds community through a shared economy, while giving you the opportunity to use an item that may not be attainable, or to save money without purchasing.

Adventure Backpacks

An example of the adventure backpack and some of the items included such as a magnifying glass, dip net and pocket guides.

Search the catalog for adventure backpacks. Each pack includes a variety of tools and nature guides to explore the outdoors. Place a hold on an adventure backpack and pick it up at the branch most convenient for you.

 

Board Games

Board games stacked on top of each other.

Search the catalog for board games. There are over 30 games in our collection serving a wide range of ages and interests. Place a hold on the game of your choice and pick it up at the branch most convenient to you.

 

Book Club Kits

An example book club kit showing a tote bag and books.

Search the catalog for book club kits. Each kit contains eight to 12 copies of a title, plus a discussion guide to help enhance your book club's discussion. Place a hold on the kit of your choice and pick it up at the branch most convenient for you.

 

Camera Kits

An example of a camera kit with a tripod, camera, camera bag, and various lights

Search the catalog for Camera Kits. Camera Kits include a point-and-shoot camera, tripod, ring light, lightbox and all cables. An SD card is not included and must be provided by the user. Camera kits can be used for any photography project but are especially useful for product photography that entrepreneurs can use to enhance their websites and social media. Camera kits can only be checked out by Adults and must be returned to a staff member.

 

Chromebooks

A Chromebook with an image of the BCPL website displayed.

Search the catalog for Chromebooks. Chromebooks are small laptops with WiFi capabilities that run Google's Chrome OS. Create and edit documents, access the internet and watch streaming videos using the library's Kanopy or hoopla services. Chromebooks can only be checked out by adults and must be returned to a staff member.

 

CPR Kits

photo of the CPR kid containing a CPR dummy

Search the catalog for CPR kits. Each kit includes a CPR manikin and an informational DVD. These kits are intended to provide practice and to re-enforce lifesaving CPR skills. CPR kits are courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens.

 

Early Learning Kits

An example of an early learning kit with toy dinosaurs and books about dinosaurs.

Search the catalog for early learning kits. Each kit is themed and includes a variety of books, toys, and a set of tips on how to interact with the contents. Place a hold on the kit of your choice and pick it up and the branch most convenient to you.

 

Engravers

An example engraver kit with engraver pen, booklet and award.

Search the catalog for engravers. Each kit contains one engraver pen and instructions on how to use it. Engravers can only be checked out by adults.

 

Fishing Poles

Black fishing pole with red bobber.

Search the catalog for fishing poles. Fishing poles are available for checkout by adults only at the North Point Branch and may not be returned in the book drop, left outside the library or returned to other branches. Fishing poles are courtesy of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

 

HotSpots

Mobile hot spot with box, case and charger.

Search the catalog for HotSpots. A mobile hot spot is a portable device that allows devices such as smartphones or laptops to access the internet wirelessly. HotSpots are available for checkout by adults only and can be requested to be picked up at the branch most convenient for you.

 

Looms

Example loom kit with weaver, shed sticks and instructions.

Search the catalog for looms. Each kit includes one easel weaver, two shed sticks, one stick shuttle and one instruction sheet. Looms are on the shelves at the Hereford Branch and can be requested to the branch most convenient for you.

 

Memory Kits

Example memory kit

Search the catalog for Memory Kits. These kits are meant to give seniors the chance to reminisce and share past experiences, but could be enjoyed by a variety of ages. Place a hold on the memory kit of your choice and pick it up at the branch most convenient to you.

 

Outdoor Activities

Photo of a set of lawn darts

Search the catalog for outdoor activities. There are a variety of activities in our collection serving a wide range of ages. Place a hold on the outdoor activity of your choice and pick it up at the branch most convenient to you.

 

Science Kits

Photo of a science kit

Search the catalog for science kits. Each kit contains some combination of a hands-on activity, book, or experiment on a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) topic. Place a hold on the kit of your choice and pick it up at the branch most convenient to you.

 

Telescope Kits

Telescope with map and star finder.

Search the catalog for telescope kits. Each kit contains a moon map, star finder and other tools that will enhance your night sky experience. Kits are available for checkout by adults only and can be requested to be picked up at the branch most convenient for you.