Joplin Public Library Has a Library of Things to Lend

The Library of Things is a collection of non-traditional materials including tools, games, kitchen items, electronics, and more - all available to check out for free with a Joplin Public Library card. It`s a collection that is meant to inspire creativity, learning, and fun. The best part is all items are available to check out for free with a Joplin Public Library card. The heart of the collection includes items that library users would only potentially need once in a while or expensive items individuals could benefit from borrowing to test before an investment is made. The project got its start when a community member generously offered to purchase items to create four cooking kits. The cooking kits include equipment for making sushi, paella, madeleines, and muffins, plus each kit has an accompanying book that provides recipes and tips. The collection has continued to grow thanks to funding from the Joplin Library Foundation. When JPL launched the collection in May 2023, it had 34 items and has now grown to over 100 "Things." Most recently, the Library`s Foundation received a generous award from the Bramlage & Willcoxon Foundation. And with those funds health and wellness related offerings were added. These items include a professional grade carpet cleaner, a blood pressure monitor, light therapy lamp, exercise equipment, and much more. The Library of Things has items in six categories: Arts & Crafts, Tools & Tech, Kitchen Gear, Health & Wellness, and Fun & Games.