Library of Things

The Library of Things collection includes items that are outside the traditional definition of library materials. Collection items include such resources as games, electronic equipment, home repair tools, learning tools and equipment, arts and crafts equipment, kitchen tools, and more. HCLS selects Library of Things items is based on an identified need in the community—enabling access by sharing resources that are often used intermittently or to provide an entry point to build new skills and experiences.

To check out a Thing, you need to have an active Hancock County Library System card in good standing. Some Things require a library card account for at least 6 months and for cardholders to present photo ID and sign a Library of Things Agreement. Refer to the lending policy for each Thing for restrictions.

Library of Things items are available for seven days and may be automatically renewed once if not reserved by another patron, unless otherwise specified. See the Materials Lending Summary. A late fine of $5.00 per day up to a maximum of $20.00 will be charged to the borrower’s account if not returned when due.

Technology

Charging Cables, varied

  • 3 hours, no renewal; In-library use only; Present photo ID and sign out (library card not required); Must be returned before closing time

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots

  • Adults 18+; One checkout per household; Must have active library account for at least 6 months prior; Present ID and sign form

  • Do not expose to extreme temperatures

Boombox, CD/Radio/MP3

  • No restrictions

  • Do not expose to extreme temperatures

Oral History Kit

  • Adults 18+, Must have active library account for at least 6 months prior; Present ID and sign form

  • Do not expose to extreme temperatures

Science

Binoculars (adults)

  • Teens (12-17) & Adults 18+; Teens (12-17) must have a parent/guardian signature

Metal Detectors

  • Adults 18+; Must have active library account for at least 6 months prior; Present ID and sign form

Microscope kit (adults)

  • Teens (12-17) & Adults 18+; Must have active library account for at least 6 months prior; Present ID and sign form

Prepared Slides kit

  • Teens (12-17) & Adults 18+; Must have active library account for at least 6 months prior; Present ID and sign form

Telescope

  • Teens (12-17) & Adults 18+; Must have active library account for at least 6 months prior; Present ID and sign form

Arts & Crafts

Sewing Machine

  • 3 hours, in-house only; Teens (12-17) & Adults 18+; Teens (12-17) must have a parent/guardian signature; Must be returned before closing time

Ukuleles, beginners kit

  • No restrictions

  • Do not expose to extreme temperatures

Recreation

Pickle Ball Kit

  • Clean off outside debris before returning

For Kids

Microscope kit (kids)

  • No restrictions

Binoculars (kids)

  • No restrictions

Toniebox

  • Present ID and sign form; Youth (under 18) must have a parent/guardian signature

Tonies audiobooks

  • Limited to 5 audiobooks per card

Have a suggestion for a Thing you’d like to see in the collection? Let us know!