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 (on the shelves next to VITAL), or in other locations specified in the descriptions below. 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. Check out our Library of Things new arrivals and subscribe to email notifications.
Adult Book Club Kits
Adult book club kits are available for a 6-week checkout period. Kits contain 10 copies of a title, discussion questions, and enrichment materials. Learn more about adult book club kits.
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 about Library baking kits.
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 the Crossfire model, the Raptor model, which has a slightly smaller frame, or the Gosky Skyview astronomy model. Sycamore Land Trust's Nature Preserve Guide includes hiking maps and other information on some good viewing areas.
Board Games
Everything from classic games like checkers and Jenga to newer games like Wingspan and Ticket to Ride are available to check out and play.
Bocce Ball Set
Easy to learn and fun for all ages, bocce, one of the oldest lawn bowling games in the world, is the perfect game for family get-togethers, casual hangouts, and outdoor adventures. The set includes everything you need to get rolling—just grab some friends and pick your location.
Energy Monitors
TrickleStar Plug-In Energy Monitors can help you understand how much power your home appliances use, identifying power hogs and faulty appliances.
Folding Hand Trucks
Make transporting heavy items easier and safer with a folding hand truck. Designed to support bulky furniture, boxes, appliances, and more, this wheeled platform helps reduce lifting and strain while transporting items across flat surfaces. Whether you’re rearranging a room or preparing for a big move, this simple tool makes the job more manageable.
iPads
Our cellular-enabled iPads are pre-loaded with apps and programs for everyday use. No access to WiFi is needed! Learn more about Library iPads.
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 about Library mobile hotspots.
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 about Library mobile video production kits.
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 about mobility devices at the Library.
Pickleball Game Sets
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.
Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles with anywhere from 100 to 1,000 pieces are available to check out and put together.
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 about Library role-playing game kits.
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 about the Seed Library.
Indiana State Park Pass
Discover waterfalls, hiking trails, forests, lakes, and more with an Indiana State Park Pass from the Library! This special Indiana State Park Pass provides free admission to any Indiana State Park when presented at the entrance gate. Skip the normal gate fee and explore some of Indiana’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.
Storytime Kits
Our storytime kits provide themed books, props, and suggested activities to support early literacy skills in a home or preschool setting. Located in the Downtown Library Children's area. Learn more about Library storytime kits.
Toys
From puzzles and toy blocks, to rattles and musical toys, the Library's toys for checkout are geared for children ages birth–4. Located in the Downtown Library Children's area.
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 books and videos or take your skills a step further with free online ukulele video lessons through LinkedIn Learning.
Video Game Controllers
Invite some friends to play your favorite video games with you! Nintendo Switch Pro, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, and Xbox wireless gaming controllers are available to borrow from the Downtown Library. They can also be placed on hold for pick-up at any Library location.
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