Our Library of Things is a collection of non-traditional items for check out. These items are located in the Library of Things space at the Downtown Library (next to the DVD collection), or in the Downtown Library Children’s Room. All items can be placed on hold to pick up at the Downtown Library, Ellettsville Branch, Southwest Branch, or Bookmobile. Take borrowing to the next level with this collection of items you might not expect to find at a library! Let us know what items you'd like to see in our Library of Things by filling out a Suggestion for Purchase.
Baking Kits
Are you interested in baking but don’t have the equipment to get started? Check out one of our baking kits! Each kit includes all the tools you’ll need to bake delicious pies, bread, cookies, or muffins. Kits include items like bowls, measuring cups, rolling pins, cookie scoops, muffin trays, leveled recipes, and more! Learn more.
Binoculars
Perfect for bird watching or taking a close-up look at other animals or any scenery you encounter on your next nature walk. The binoculars are available for a two-week checkout period. Choose from either the Crossfire model, or the Raptor model, which has a slightly smaller frame. View binocular availability in the Library catalog.
Book Club Kits
Book club kits for both adults and children are available for a 6-week checkout period. Kits contain 10 copies of a title, discussion questions, and enrichment materials. Learn more.
Calculators
Casio fx-260 solar powered scientific calculators are available for check out. Calculators have 10+2 Digit LCD display and handle fraction calculations, logarithms/exponents and trig functions. View calculator availability in the catalog.
Energy Monitors
TrickleStar Plug-In Energy Monitors can help you understand how much power your home appliances use, identifying power hogs and faulty appliances. View energy monitor availability in the catalog.
External Hard Drives
1 TB external hard drives are available for checkout at the Downtown Library. External hard drives are great for storing and moving your files, photos, and videos. External hard drives are erased upon return to the Library. View external hard drive availability in the catalog.
Flash Drives
16 GB USB flash drives are available for checkout at the Downtown Library. Flash drives are great for storing and moving your files, photos, and videos. Flash drives are erased upon return to the Library. View flash drive availability in the catalog.
iPads
Our cellular-enabled iPads are pre-loaded with apps and programs for everyday use. No access to WiFi is needed! Learn more.
Launchpad Tablets
Pre-loaded with content for kids, designed with an easy-to-use interface, and 100% secure, Playaway Launchpad tablets are made to be passed from one set of hands to the next. Find a Launchpad with the experience you want, then start exploring!
Mobile Hotspots
Looking for free, unrestricted internet access at home or on the go? Check out a mobile hotspot to easily connect up to five personal devices at once. Mobile hotspots can be used anywhere that receives a T-Mobile cellular signal. Learn more.
Mobile Video Production Kits
Mobile Video Production Kits give you access to recording equipment to use with your smartphone anytime and anywhere. Kits include an adjustable tripod for stability, a microphone for quality audio, and an adjustable light. Learn more.
Mobility Devices
Monroe County Public Library is providing free used canes, crutches, walkers and rollators to the public. This Mobility Aids Lending Library (also known as “MALL”) is a partnership between the Library, a group of local wheelchair users known as the Wheelie Women, and the City of Bloomington Council for Community Accessibility. Learn more
Pickleball Game Set
The pickleball starter set comes complete with two aluminum pickleball paddles and two outdoor pickleballs so you have everything you need for a two player game. Both the aluminum pickleball paddles and pickleballs are approved for competitive and tournament play by USA Pickleball (USAPA), which provides a summary of official game rules. Place a hold or stop into the Library of Things room at the Downtown Library to borrow for a two-week time period. View pickleball game set availability in the catalog.
Role-Playing Game Kits
Want to try a new role-playing game but not ready to commit to purchasing the gear? Check out one of our Role-Playing Game Kits! Each kit includes everything you need to play. Learn more.
Seed Library
The Seed Library is a collection of non-invasive, non-GMO food and flower seeds that you can take to plant at home. The collection includes organic, heirloom, and pollinator-friendly seeds. Learn more.
Storytime Kits
Our storytime kits provide themed books, props, and suggested activities to support early literacy skills in a home or preschool setting. Learn more.
Toys
From puzzles and toy blocks, to rattles and musical toys, the Library's toys for checkout are geared for children ages birth–4. View toys in the catalog.
Ukulele Kits
Ukulele kits include a ukulele, tuner, an information sheet, and a chord chart so you can start learning. Ukulele kits are made possible through a generous contribution by the Bloomington Ukulele Club. Check out these staff picks books and videos to help you learn how to play. View ukulele kits in the catalog.