Learn How the ‘Library of Things’ at Your Family’s Local Library Can Open Doors for Your Kids

Now more than ever, you never know what you’ll find at your local library.

For Megan Novak, the librarian who runs Royal Oak Public Library’s “Library of Things,” a story stands out — about a little girl and a robotic cat named Butterscotch.

“One of the first people to check it out was a family. Their daughter got really sick and was in the hospital,” Novak shares. “The whole time the cat was with her. It got her through it, because she had a little companion.”

Whether it’s comfort, a new board game, a ukulele or a sewing machine, the Library of Things has become a family favorite — offering nontraditional items to borrow.

“It’s not just about books, although people still really love books,” Novak says. “A lot of libraries have these really unique services.”

Royal Oak is one of about 20 metro Detroit and Ann Arbor libraries that have created a Library of Things in the past 10 to 15 years. Unlike most, ROPL doesn’t require you to be a resident — anyone with a valid library card from The Library Network can borrow.

Here’s a look at ROPL’s collection, a unique option in Detroit and more local spots to explore.

What you’ll find at Royal Oak’s Library of Things

At ROPL, there are 300 items in two sections — one for youth and one for adults or older kids. 

Each item checks out for three weeks, giving families plenty of time to explore. Other libraries may limit loans to one or two weeks, depending on the item.

“It allows them a chance to experiment,” Novak says. “They can try out a new hobby, and it doesn’t cost them anything.” A few examples:

• Board games, jigsaw puzzles, cards
• Craft Items like sewing machines and knitting needs
• Electronics (Echo Dot, karaoke machine, scanning translation pen)
• Instruments like a mini theremin, acoustic guitar, keyboard and steel-tongue drum
• Outdoor fun sets (pickleball, disc golf, volleyball, rock hunting, bird watching)
• Sensory kits and assistive technology

“The only stipulation is that they have to check it and return it here in person,” says Novak.

It also opens doors for families who might not be able to afford educational tools.

“It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do,” Novak adds. “It’s for everybody. That’s a big principle we have.”

A young patron eyes the Otamatone, a music-note shaped kids’ instrument, in the Royal Oak Public Library. / Photo by Kim Kovelle

More than just stuff — it encourages kids to read

The Library of Things also gives kids and families new ways to connect with learning and the library itself. “Especially in the youth department, I try to focus on toys that can help children with reading,” Novak says. Some highlights:

• Early literacy: Such as an Alphabet Alligators matching game
• Book-connected kits: Like the birdwatching kit, which comes with books, a birdcall audio book and a shared journal
• Discovery: Kids are naturally drawn to the “things” — especially the toys and games — which can spark curiosity about what else the library offers

Learning to fix at Detroit Public Library’s Repair Café

The Detroit Public Library offers a different kind of “thing” — the monthly Repair Café at its Knapp branch.

Part of a global movement started in Amsterdam in 2009, these events offer free repairs by volunteers, says branch manager Jennifer Dye, and teach visitors how to do the fixes themselves.

“Kids get the chance to see how repairs get done and how devices work,” Dye says. “I also try to have books available on how-tos and repairs.” Fixes can include:

• Bicycles
• Clothing
• Computers
• Furniture
• Lamps
• Small appliances

“We provide refreshments for everyone,” she adds, “whether they bring things to repair, volunteer or simply enjoy watching.”

More metro Detroit libraries with a Library of Things

Ready to start your Library of Things adventure? Here are more libraries offering similar collections. Most are reserved for residents, so check ahead:

1. Ann Arbor District Library
2. Auburn Hills Public Library
3. Chesterfield Township Library
4. Clinton-Macomb Public Library
5. Commerce Township Community Library
6. Ferndale Area District Library
7. Grosse Pointe Public Library
8. Livonia Public Library
9. Lyon Township Public Library
10. Madison Heights Public Library
11. Mount Clemens Public Library
12. Northville District Library
13. Redford Township District Library
14. Royal Oak Public Library
15. Sterling Heights Public Library
16. Trenton Veterans Memorial Library
17. West Bloomfield Township Public Library
18. Westland Public Library
19. Ypsilanti District Library

This content is sponsored by Wayne County Community College District. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Raising Kids Who Love to Read.

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