What is a Library of Things?

Years ago, I worked in a small university office with a typically energetic co-worker. That winter she had been struggling with some seasonal depression, commonly known as SAD for Seasonal Affective Disorder. To improve her mood and energy levels, she purchased a special therapy light that she sat in front of for a specified amount of time each day to mimic the reduced exposure to sunlight that we all experience during winter in Michigan.

These SAD therapy lights are available for purchase and can range anywhere from $40 to several hundred dollars each. However, you can avoid this cost completely and check out a SAD therapy light for free from the library. Yes, Wickson has four light therapy machines that you can borrow for three weeks at a time just like any book! Which brings me to a wonderful service that many libraries, including Wickson, offer called the Library of Things.

Wickson’s Library of Things has an assortment of items that you can check out for ten days to three weeks, depending on the item. Near the circulation desk there is a shelf with CD cases that you bring to the counter to check out the items. Have you ever thought, “I wish I had a <insert item here,> but I really don’t want to buy it.” If so, then read on for a convenient solution.

As the Wickson website explains: “The Library of Things is a collection of non-traditional materials. A Library of Things can include tools, games, electronics, and more - all available to check out for free with a library card.” Patrons can borrow items from the Library of Things just like books. You need to pick up and return the items during normal library business hours, not through the drop box, and some items require a waiver for checkout.

So, what is available at Wickson? I recently found some items that have multiple copies. For those who may need some support for reading printed materials, there are book stands and lighted book magnifiers. I thought these would come in handy for the holidays to prop recipes conveniently on the counter while preparing your favorite dishes.

Another item that would be great for groups, holidays, and summer nights is a portable projector and screen. This way you can watch movies, videos, and maybe even a big sporting event while sharing snacks and drinks and giving everyone a prime view. There are also large yard games like Jenga and giant checkers, as well as over 100 puzzles and other board games to choose from, which would be perfect for family gatherings or any cozy winter night. And why buy a puzzle when you can check one out and bring it back once you’ve finished it?

If learning something new is on your list, the Library of Things offers pickleball and disc golf sets and ukeleles. You can also find sign language cards, STEM and sensory kits, and kits for math and fine motor skills.

Finally, many useful home items are available. A very valuable safety item for this time of year is a digital radon detector. Wickson has four available for checkout, so you can check your home’s radon levels for free to stay safe this season.

Wickson is always looking to expand their offerings, so if you have items you think might be good additions to the Library of Things, contact the library.