It’s Not Just Books Anymore: The Surprisingly Cool Things You Can Borrow from Public Libraries

If you haven’t been inside a public library lately, you might be picturing quiet aisles of books, a reference desk, and maybe a photocopier humming in the corner. While books are still at the heart of libraries, today’s public libraries have quietly evolved into something much bigger—and much more unexpected.
Across the country (and around the world), libraries are lending out far more than novels and nonfiction. From power tools to musical instruments, Wi‑Fi hotspots to cake pans, public libraries have become hubs for practical, creative, and sometimes downright delightful resources. Here’s a look at the wide—and growing—range of items you might be able to borrow with nothing more than a library card.


The Classics: Books, Movies, Music, and More
Let’s start with what libraries have always done well. In addition to physical books, most libraries now offer:

• E‑books and audiobooks downloadable to your phone or tablet
• DVDs and Blu‑rays, including new releases and classic films
• Music CDs and digital streaming services
• Magazines and newspapers, often with extensive digital archives

Many libraries also provide access to specialized databases, including genealogy records, language‑learning platforms, academic journals, and test‑prep materials—all free with your membership.


Technology You Can Take Home
One of the most practical modern library offerings is technology lending. These programs are often designed to close the digital divide, but they’re useful for anyone.
Common tech loans include:

• Wi‑Fi hotspots for home internet access
• Laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets
• Graphing calculators for students
• E‑readers preloaded with books
• Charging kits, cords, and adapters

Some libraries even lend out cameras, microphones, podcasting kits, and VR headsets, making creative and professional tools accessible without a hefty price tag.


The Rise of the “Library of Things”
Perhaps the most delightful trend in modern libraries is the “Library of Things.” These collections focus on items people often need temporarily—things that are expensive, bulky, or easy to share.
Depending on your library, you might find:

• Tools: drills, levels, wrenches, stud finders
• Gardening equipment: seed spreaders, pruning tools, even seed libraries
• Home items: carpet cleaners, sewing machines, cake pans
• Outdoor gear: binoculars, hiking poles, fishing rods
• Games and puzzles: board games, tabletop RPGs, jigsaw puzzles

The idea is simple: why buy something you’ll use once or twice when you can borrow it?


Creative and Musical Gear
Libraries are also embracing creativity in a big way. Many now support artists, musicians, and makers with borrowable equipment or in‑house studios. Offerings can include:

• Musical instruments like guitars, ukuleles, keyboards, and violins
• Recording studios with soundproof rooms and editing software
• Makerspaces featuring 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines
• Craft tools such as button makers, embroidery machines, and looms

For aspiring creators, these resources can remove major barriers to experimenting, learning, or even launching a new project.


Learning Kits and Science Tools
Libraries are increasingly hands‑on when it comes to education, especially for kids and lifelong learners. Many offer themed kits designed to help people learn by doing.
You might be able to check out:

• STEM kits with robotics, coding tools, and circuitry
• Microscopes and telescopes
• Science experiment kits
• Early literacy backpacks for young children
• Language‑learning kits with books, games, and audio

Some libraries even lend radon detectors, kill‑a‑watt meters, or soil‑testing tools, helping patrons understand their homes and environment more deeply.


Passes, Tickets, and Experiences
Another popular category is experience-based borrowing. Many libraries partner with local cultural institutions to offer free or discounted admission.
Common examples include:

• Passes to museums, zoos, aquariums, and botanical gardens
• State park passes
• Local attraction discounts or cultural event tickets

These programs don’t just save money—they help connect communities with arts, history, and nature.


Tools for Everyday Life
Libraries are also stepping up as practical problem solvers. Some now lend items that address real, everyday needs:

• Notary services
• Tax preparation help
• Job interview clothing closets
• Blood pressure monitors and health kits
• Bike repair tools or even bikes themselves

In many communities, libraries have become trusted, low‑barrier entry points for support and assistance.


Why Libraries Are Expanding What They Lend
This expansion isn’t random. Libraries are responding to changing community needs, budgets, and lifestyles. As information becomes increasingly digital and physical storage space opens up, libraries have reimagined their mission: not just access to information, but access to opportunity.
By lending out things instead of just telling you how to use them, libraries empower people to learn, create, save money, and try something new—without risk.


How to Find Out What Your Library Offers
Not every library lends everything on this list, but most lend far more than people expect. To see what’s available near you:

1. Visit your library’s website and search for “Library of Things”
2. Ask a librarian (they love this question)
3. Browse your library’s catalog by category instead of title

You might be surprised by what’s sitting on the shelves.


The Takeaway
Public libraries have quietly transformed into one of the most generous, versatile resources in our communities. They’re no longer just places to borrow stories—they’re places to borrow skills, tools, experiences, and possibilities.
So the next time you need a book, a drill, a Wi‑Fi connection, or a spark of inspiration, don’t head straight to the store. Head to the library instead.