While books and movies are common offerings at public libraries, Shawano County Library, at its main location, also offers a collection of non-traditional items through the Library of Things. Library of Things is exactly that- a whole bunch of “things” that can be borrowed by patrons, free of charge- just like a library book!
“The main concept of Library of Things,” shared Kristie Hauer, library director, “is to offer items that would be helpful and in demand by our community without putting the cost and storage of infrequently used items onto individuals.”
Shawano County Library offers a wide range of kitchen gadgets from cake pans and cookie cutters to an ice cream maker and Instant Pot as well as a pan to make Twinkies! For gatherings, the Nesco, 3-pot slower cooker, Belgian waffle maker, large coffee urn, or cake pop maker may come in handy. To entertain your guests, Library of Things offers a large, portable screen and digital projector for outdoor movie nights. Or a karaoke machine for those who love music.
Now that summer has arrived, many outdoor activities are also available such as fishing poles and tackle, badminton, kickball, soccer ball, croquet, and pickleball. A bike pump and bike repair kit can keep you rolling through summer.
For crafters, Library of Things includes a metal stamping kit, crochet hooks, knitting needles, jewelry making tool kit, and variety of craft scissors.
Adventurers will be sure to enjoy the Go Pro kit, telescope, binoculars, and metal detector. Planning to travel this summer? Luggage can be borrowed from Shawano County Library for your trip or you could borrow the Travel Games pack to make a road trip more fun.
Library of things has been available for a couple of years, however new items continue to be added on a frequent basis.
The Shawano County Library consists of the main library in Shawano, branches in Birnamwood, Bonduel, Mattoon, Tigerton and Wittenberg as well as a county-wide delivery service. For questions, please contact the Shawano County Library at (715) 526-3829.
