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County Public Library launches Library of Things
- Details
- Wednesday, 10 December 2025
- Written by Sheila D. Barker
In August of this year, the Cumberland County Public Library unveiled an exciting new resource for the community: the Library of Things. Designed to expand access beyond books and digital materials, this innovative program allows library cardholders to borrow a variety of practical and recreational items—from kitchen kits and games to tools and more—using the same library card they use for traditional materials.
The Library of Things reflects a growing national trend in libraries reimagining their role as community resource hubs. By offering nontraditional items for checkout, the Cumberland County Public Library is helping residents save money, try new hobbies, host gatherings, and complete projects without having to purchase costly equipment.
Who Can Borrow and How It Works
To participate, borrowers must hold a Cumberland County Public Library adult library card and maintain an account with less than $10 in fines. Each cardholder may borrow one “Thing” at a time, making access fair and available across the community.
Items in the Library of Things are checked out for a three-week loan period, and unlike books and other materials, renewals are not permitted. This policy helps ensure that high-demand items circulate efficiently among patrons.
Placing a Hold and Checking Out
Holds for Library of Things items are handled a bit differently than traditional materials. Items are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and online holds are not available. Patrons who wish to reserve an item may call their local library branch to request a hold for that same day only.
When picking up an item, borrowers must visit the Circulation Desk and speak directly with a staff member. Before checkout is finalized, patrons are required to sign a customer responsibility form and participate in a brief review of the item alongside staff. This includes:
• Verifying that all parts are present
• Confirming the item’s condition
• Understanding the item’s replacement value
This hands-on process establishes that both staff and patrons are confident about the item’s condition before it leaves the library.
Returning Items Safely
All Library of Things items must be returned to the same branch where they were borrowed. For safety and inventory purposes, items must be returned directly to the Circulation Desk—they should not be placed in the outdoor book return.
Upon return, staff members carefully inspect each item for missing parts or damage. If an item becomes unsafe or damaged during use, borrowers are instructed to stop using it immediately and notify library staff as soon as possible.
If an item is lost or not returned, the borrower will be charged the full replacement cost. In cases of damage, the borrower may be responsible for repair or replacement fees, depending on the extent of the damage.
What’s Available?
The Library of Things collection includes a wide range of items designed to support learning, creativity, entertainment, and everyday needs. Current offerings include kitchen kits, games, tools, and other useful equipment. Items are distributed across different Cumberland County Public Library branches, allowing patrons to explore what is available closest to them.
A full, up-to-date catalog of items and their branch locations is available through the library’s online system, making it easy for patrons to browse options before visiting or calling their local branch.
Access that online catalog here: https://tinyurl.com/3vt3vxnk. Additional information on how to check out items from the Library of Things can be found here: https://cumberland.lib.nc.libguides.com/LibraryOfThings.
“The main page is about the Library of Things in general, then there are tabs for Children, Teen, Adult, Experience Passes, and Memory kits with descriptions (and usually photos) of each kit. A search of “Library of Things” will bring up the collection items in our online catalog, again with photos, locations, and descriptions. The Ghost Hunting kit was so popular that we immediately purchased 2 additional kits!” said Pamela Kource, Senior Library Division Manager for Collection Development and Circulation.
Kource gave a sneak peek at some of the new items to come.
“We’re working on the new kits for this year. Here are some of the kits we’ll be adding for Adults: Water Bath Canning Kit, Metal Detecting Kit and a Mini Projector Kit.”
The launch of the Library of Things demonstrates Cumberland County Public Library’s ongoing commitment to equity, education, and community enrichment. By offering access to high-value items at no cost beyond standard library membership, the program helps reduce financial barriers and encourages hands-on learning and exploration for residents of all ages.
Whether someone wants to try out a new cooking skill, plan a game night, or tackle a home project, the Library of Things provides a convenient, budget-friendly solution—proving once again that today’s libraries are about much more than books.
