Library of Things Policy

Purpose

The Library of Things at the Boulder Junction Public Library is an ever-changing, circulating collection of non-traditional, occasional-use items that may include household and outdoor equipment. The Library of Things aims to save patrons money; encourage experimentation, curiosity, and learning; and offer self-guided recreation.

Policy

The Library of Things is available to patrons 18 years and older who have a valid Northern Waters Library Service card in good standing and who have signed the lender’s agreement and waiver.

Patrons will be limited to 2 items from the Library of Things at a time. Items have a 7 day loan period and cannot be renewed.

If the item is available (no holds) upon return, a patron may re-check out the item immediately. The Boulder Junction Public Library may limit the number of repeat loans to a household in the interest of ensuring fair access for all.

Items are used at the sole risk of the borrower. The Boulder Junction Public Library makes no representation or warranty as to the condition of the items available. Borrowers are responsible for reading and abiding by all manufacturer recommendations, warranties, and instructions for use.

Items must be returned to the Boulder Junction circulation desk and cannot be placed in the book drop or returned to another library. As with all library materials, borrowers are responsible for the care of the item(s). Items must be returned clean and in the same or better condition as when the item was checked out. Replacement costs will be charged for lost or damaged items and items may be subject to a fee if cleaning and/or repair is required.

Collection Criteria

Items will be added to the Library of Things collection using the following criteria:

1. There is a patron demand or demonstrated community need for the item.
2. The library has adequate space to store the item.
3. There is funding for the item.
4. Instructions for use of the item are readily available or can easily be created by library staff.
5. There is a reasonable assumption that patrons can use the item without specialized training.

Donations

The Boulder Junction Public Library may accept donated items to be added to the Library of Things collection based on the above criteria. Donated items must be in usable condition with the expectation of at least one year of circulation. Donations must be discussed with either the Library Director or the Library Assistant prior to bringing in the item(s) and will not be accepted without prior authorization.

Suggestions

Patrons are encouraged to make suggestions for additions to the Library of Things. Suggestions will be reviewed by library staff and additions will be decided upon based on the collection criteria.

Removal from Collection

The Library of Things will be routinely evaluated following the collection maintenance criteria outlined in the Collection Development Policy. Popular items removed due to wear and tear will be replaced when budget allows.

 

Adopted April 2025