Fostering Knowledge - BDL Library of Things

BCCF provided a grant to the Branch District Library to increase literacy and allow patrons to check out a variety of non-literature items to increase their curiosity in a new hobby or remove a barrier for a need.

The Branch District Library has launched a new program, Library of Things, which allows BDL patrons to check out non-literature items to allow them access to items for a new hobby, break barriers for when items are in need, and create an environment for engagement. Some of the most popular items offered in the Library of things are: Pickleball Set, 6 in 1 Powerstation/car  battery jumper, snow sleds, rock tumbler, and a moving cart.

The Library of Things is an important program for community engagement by offering free tools and items for new hobbies, making them accessible to everyone regardless of financial means. This not only fosters creativity and lifelong learning but also helps build a sense of community as individuals explore new interests together.

A major draw for the Library of Things was the ability to buy Tonies, offering content for their youngest readers with hours of storytelling, songs, mindfulness activities and more. The addition of the Tonies from the Library of Things brings on-demand, screen-free education to children.

The grant from the Branch County Community Foundation helped alleviate the burden of the initial investment, bringing the unique and necessary items to Branch County!