Library of Things

Thanks to the generous support of The Friends of Lithgow Library, we now have a Library of Things!

A Library of Things allows you to borrow non-traditional library items such as snowshoes or a sewing machine. More than a “try before you buy” opportunity, the Library of Things aligns with the mission of our library — to offer a collection of materials that meets the needs, interests, and abilities of our diverse community. A Library of Things promotes sharing with community members, sustainability, and trying new things. We hope you enjoy!

Interested in donating? Please let us know what you have in mind and we will see if we are able to add it to our collection. Some things we would be thrilled to receive: a VCR, cake pans, instruments, a portable DVD player, plastic storage bins/boxes, and fishing poles and tackle. Thank you!

Library of Things Policies
  • Eligibility: You must be a Lithgow cardholder for at least 3 months and in good standing (current card, no outstanding fees, etc.). Some Library of Things items are strictly limited to Adults only (18+).
  • Availability: The Library of Things items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Items may not be reserved & are not available through interlibrary loan.
  • Borrowing: You may borrow 5 Library of Things item at a time for up-to two weeks. Items may not be renewed.
  • Returning: Library of Things items should be returned in-person only (not in the drop box.) Items should be returned on-time and as a complete kit (all parts included.) Failure to follow the return policy may lead to repair/replacement cost and/or impact borrowing privileges.
  • Loss or damage: The card holder is responsible for any repair or replacement due to loss or damage. The card holder is responsible for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur from use of equipment.

Click the image of the item you’re interested in to check its availability.
Call or visit the Reference Desk with any questions.


Cooking/Baking

Cake Pans
Choose from several fun cake pan shapes. Each pan can be checked out individually. We have: Little train, Mickey Mouse, Veggie Tales, Tinker bell, Huggable bear, Big Bird, Smiling Snowman, Megasaurus, Flower, 2 6x2 Round pans, and 2 8x2 Round pans.

Lobster/Clam Steamer Pot
This large double steamer pot is designed for clams, lobsters, and crabs and is made of black speckled enamel on steel. It is 2-tiered with 2 handles on each tier a spigot for easy removal of liquids. Base tier holds about 2 gallons, and the top tier holds about 20 quarts.
Crafting

Crochet Kit
This Crochet Kit comes with a Red Heart Learn Crochet book with 15 easy projects, 5 different sized crochet hooks, 10 different sized stitch markers/place markers, 2 yarn needles, and a “knit check” to check the gauge of your crochet work.

Sewing Machine Kit
This Singer heavy duty sewing machine has a maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches-per-minute, so projects can be sewn quickly and through a variety of heavy weight fabrics. The 23 built-in stitches including basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonhole stitches allow you to sew a variety of projects, such as fashions, home décor, quilts, crafts, and more. After following the threading path printed right on the machine, the automatic needle threader feature helps you to effortlessly thread the eye of the needle without eye strain or frustration. Kit includes sewing machine and case/bag, foot pedal/power cord, spool cap, threader, extra bobbin, and instruction manual.

Also, check out our Sewing Supply Swap, located right next to the Library of Things, if you're in need of some thread, buttons, or other supplies!

Sewing Machine Kit for Beginners
This mini sewing machine has 12 stitch patterns, each corresponding to a different sewing method, which can be adjusted to different gears for use according to your needs, including front and back stitch, sleeve stitch, and two-line flat stitch, replaceable pedals, perfect for sewing leather, jeans, children’s clothing, shopping bags, tablecloths, purses, dolls, pillows, skirts, holes, tears, etc.. Kit includes sewing machine and case/bag, foot pedal, power cord, threader, bobbin, and instruction manual.

Also, check out our Sewing Supply Swap, located right next to the Library of Things, if you're in need of some thread, buttons, or other supplies!

Yarn Ball Kit
The Knit Picks Ball Winder and Yarn Swift let you transform yarn hanks and skeins into compact center-pull cakes that sit nicely while you knit and crochet. Easily winds up to 100 grams or 3.5 ounces of yarn, from lace and fingering weights to worsted and bulky weights. The Yarn Swift features a simple clamp holds swift in place easily on any table or surface up to 1 1/2'' thick, and umbrella opens up to fit most standard-sized yarn hanks; Ball Winder attaches to any table edge or surface up to 1-1/2" thick; just twist on the spindle, position the guide arm and start winding! Both items fold when not in use and make for compact storage while still allowing quick and easy assembly. The kit includes Instructions for both the Ball Winder and Yarn Swift.
Musical Instruments

Ukulele Kit
This Donner concert ukulele is a great ukulele set for adults, beginners, or professionals. The ukulele has 18 brass frets with fret position marks at 5th, 7th, 9th and 12th frets on neck and top of fingerboard. The kit includes a concert ukulele with strap, gig bag, tuner (and instruction manual), and pick. Visit the Reference Desk for books on learning how to play the ukulele.
Office

Electronic Typewriter
Brother SX-4000 electronic typewriter is a mid-level portable daisywheel typewriter with a 16-character LCD display and a 70,000 word dictionary. Its features include the Perfectype professional touch keyboard, automatic "word-out" and "line-out" correction memory, automatic underling, bold printing, right margin flush and view mode. It has a variable 10/12/15 pitch typing selector and automatic paper insertion.

Ergonomic Keyboard
This Logitech wireless ergonomic keyboard has a cushioned palm rest and a wavy design which places your hands, wrists and forearms in a natural typing position. It has been designed and tested according to criteria set out by leading ergonomists and is approved by United States Ergonomics. The keyboard’s compact size allows you to bring your mouse closer to your body, resulting in a more natural shoulder position compared to a full size keyboard. Connect with Bluetooth or the Logi Bolt Receiver: Use Easy-Switch to switch between laptop, tablet and phone. (compatible with Windows/macOS/iPadOS/ChromeOS).

Ergonomic Mouse (right-handed)
This Logitech Lift vertical wireless ergonomic mouse has been designed, developed, tested and approved according to criteria set out by leading ergonomists. Connect via Bluetooth or Logi Bolt USB to Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Chrome OS, or Linux.

Paper Shredder
This 4.2 gallon paper shredder can shred 8 sheets of paper (letter size) at one time, non-metal credit cards (one at a time), staples, paper clips or documents. You can continuously shred up to 180 sheets of paper (up to 8 sheets at a time) for 4 minutes. Automatic start and manual reversal clears paper jams, along with overheating protection.

Paper Trimmer
This Fiskars ProCision Rotary Bypass Trimmer is ideal for cutting through thick materials like cork, magnet, chipboard, and EVA foam sheets (up to 3mm). The dual-rail system helps eliminate blade wiggle and ensures straight and precise cutting through a variety of materials. The rotary bypass blade is self-sharpening and never needs to be replaced. Grid line measurements on the top and bottom of the smudge guard provide versatile use for both right- and left-handed users.
Outdoor Recreation

Apple Picker
This lightweight 15 cm diameter fruit basket/harvesting tool includes an adjustable bracket that easily clamps and securely fastens to poles of various lengths with 1-1 ⅛ inch diameter. The coated wire prongs gently pull fruit off of trees without causing damage to the fruit or the tree. The highly resilient foam pad at the bottom of the basket prevents the fruit from getting any cuts or bruises during the picking process. The 13” basket can hold several fruit to speed up the fruit picking process. Ideal for fruits that are larger than two inches in diameter including, apples, oranges, pears, figs, avocados, lemons, kiwis, mangoes, guavas, nectarines, plums, papayas, and much more.

Bicycle Pump
Floor bicycle pump with gauge (max 160 PSI high pressure capacity) and both Presta and Schrader valves. Includes a multi-function adapter, 4 metal pin needles, and 2 tapered nozzle. Can inflate for mountain, BMX and kids’ wide tires as well as the thinner, high-pressure tires found on road and commuter bikes, electric vehicles, motorcycles, air cushion, swimming ring, basketball, football, air bed, and any inflatable balls toys.

Binoculars
Bushnell 10×42 compact waterproof binoculars with fully multi coated lens.

Cornhole
This Cornhole set includes 2 3 feet x 2 feet cornhole boards, 8 all-weather regulation bean bags, a premium carrying case, and game rules.

Croquet Set
This Croquet Set comes with 2 stakes, 6 mallets, 6 balls, 9 wickets, and game instructions.

Garden Tool Set
Stainless steel garden tool set with non-slip handles: a large trowel, small trowel, cultivator, hand rake, weeder, pruning shears and an Oxford cloth tote.

Giant Connect 4
Giant, 47.5” x 17” x 41, connect-All-4 game set.

Giant Tumble Tower
57 stacking blocks, 2 dice, 1 scoreboard & marker, and a zippered carrying bag. Each block measures 7.15 * 2.38* 1.43 inches. The toppling timber starts at 2.3 Ft tall and can be grown up over 5 Ft tall.

IGLOO Wheelie Cooler (38qt./36L)
Cooler with wheels and handle. Holds 38 quarts or 36 liters.

Pickleball Set
Enjoy this paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Appropriate for all ages and skill levels, with simple rules, pickleball is a good introductory sport. Set includes 4 DinkersClub USAPA approved pickleball paddles, 4 balls, 4 rolls of grip tape, and a carry bag.

Snowball Makers
These snow ball tools (a pack of 4) help you easily create the perfect snowball in just seconds, so you can stock up for a snowball fight showdown with friends or family. Ideal for people of all ages, this snowball making tool has a long handle to keep your hands safe, dry, and warm when you are prepping in the cold. It is even great to use outside of the snowy winter months and can be used with wet sand at the beach, mud, or to make DIY bath bombs.

Snowshoes – Adult 21″ (70 – 150 lbs)
These snowshoes have a 21-inch frame and are built for users from 70-150 pounds. With double ratcheting bindings, it’s easy to adjust to your footwear. The one-buckle tightening mechanism coupled with TPE heel strap provides efficient support. The snowshoes come with adjustable poles, waterproof leg gaiters, and a case. Want information on where to snowshoe in the area? The Augusta Nature Education Center has 179 acres and 5 miles of trail for you to enjoy! See their trail map here.

Snowshoes – Adult 25″ (120 – 160 lbs)
These snowshoes have a 25-inch frame and are built for users from 120-160 pounds. With double ratcheting bindings, it’s easy to adjust to your footwear. The one-buckle tightening mechanism coupled with TPE heel strap provides efficient support. The snowshoes come with adjustable poles, waterproof leg gaiters, and a case. Want information on where to snowshoe in the area? The Augusta Nature Education Center has 179 acres and 5 miles of trail for you to enjoy! See their trail map here.

Snowshoes – Adult 30″ (160 – 250 lbs)
These snowshoes have a 30-inch frame and are built for users from 160-250 pounds. With double ratcheting bindings, it’s easy to adjust to your footwear. The one-buckle tightening mechanism coupled with TPE heel strap provides efficient support. The snowshoes come with adjustable poles, waterproof leg gaiters, and a case. Want information on where to snowshoe in the area? The Augusta Nature Education Center has 179 acres and 5 miles of trail for you to enjoy! See their trail map here.

Snowshoes – Youth
We have 2 pairs of Youth Snowshoes. Weighing 2.2 pounds, these snowshoes have a 7×16-inch frame and are built for users from 25-100 pounds. The easy-pull binding works with any boot. The snowshoes come with adjustable poles and a case. Want information on where to snowshoe in the area? The Augusta Nature Education Center has 179 acres and 5 miles of trail for you to enjoy! See their trail map here.

Trekking Poles
We have 2 pairs of Trekology collapsible hiking and trekking poles. The length of the trekking poles can be customized: either 100-120cm (5’8″ or shorter) or 115-135cm (5’9″ or taller). For storage, they collapse down to a portable 15 inches (38 cm). The Trekking Poles come with assorted tips (2 snow baskets, 2 mud stops, 2 rubber tips, and 2 rubber feet) as well as a Kennebec Land Trust Hiking Guide.
Technology

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet
This tablet has a 10.1" 1080p Full HD display, a 13-hour battery and a 5 MP front-facing camera. The pre-loaded apps include a selection of popular free games, Hoopla and CloudLibrary for audiobooks, eBooks, magazines, music, and streaming movies and TV shows—all free with your library card, language-learning apps, podcast and music apps, social media apps, email apps, general internet browsing, and more. Please note that some of these apps require an account. The tablet also has popular streaming apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Max, Peacock, Disney+, and more, however, these require an existing paid account. The tablet also has Accessibility features such as Voice View Screen Reader, Speak Selection, and other visual, audio, and interactive features. Browsing history, app data, and credential storage will be cleared upon the tablet’s return.

Bluetooth Speaker
This wireless, portable speaker can connect via Bluetooth to your devices.

Blu-ray Disc Player
This Blu-ray Disc Player comes with a remote control, HDMI Cable, and instruction manual. Plays CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Ray Discs.

Boombox
Top loading Magnavox CD boombox with AM/FM stereo radio. The aux input allows connection to any device. The boombox is CD-R/CD-RW compatible and has an AC/DC adapter.

C-Pen Text-to-Speech Reader
No WiFi is required to scan full sentences or single words of printed text and listen to it being read out automatically via AI-based text recognition in different accents, speeds, and volumes, depending on preference. The built-in dictionary can define & read aloud the meaning of any word you get stuck on, with an audio boost setting for better hearing. The C Pen recognizes and speaks in English, French & Spanish. The C Pen can also store your scanned text, and it can be uploaded to your device via USB transfer. With 5GB of storage, you’ll have up to 600k pages with up to 3 days of continuous voice memos.

DP Cable
Display Port cable for transmitting video and audio signals from source to display.

DVD Player
This DVD player comes with a remote control, 1x 4.92ft HDMI Cable, and 1x 3ft RCA Cable. This DVD player plays CDs and DVDs but it does not support Blu-ray Discs.

Electricity Monitor
Electricity monitor to help you monitor, measure and manage your electricity consumption. Simply plug the monitor into an electrical outlet and plug an appliance into the monitor to get a read-out of electricity usage. Follow the instructions to calculate how much the appliance is costing you each month. Kit includes electricity monitor, power cord, and a brochure that features home energy-saving tips, instructions on how to use the electricity monitor, and educational activities for family and children.

External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop
This external CD/DVD drive connects to the USB port of your laptop. Kit comes with instruction manual.

HDMI Cable
HDMI cable for transmitting video and audio signals from source to display.

Karaoke Machine
Portable karaoke machine with Bluetooth PA speaker system, USB, Aux, 2 wireless microphones, instruction manual, and colorful LED light that changes with the beat of the music.

Multimedia Player : Records, CDs, Cassettes, Radio, Bluetooth Speaker
This is a 3-Speed Vinyl Player (plays all of your 7″ 10″ 12″ vinyl records), CD and cassette player, Bluetooth speaker, FM / AM digital radio, and has USB / SD playback and encoding (to record your vinyl and cassettes), a 3.5mm Aux-In jack for playing music from devices, a headphone jack, and a LINE OUT connector for external speakers. Kit includes a remote, 45 RPM adapter, and instruction manual.

Portable Charger
Keep your mobile devices powered on the go with the myCharge AMP PRONG 5K portable power pack. The 5000mAh capacity powers up to two devices simultaneously. The myCharge AMP PRONG 5K portable power pack has USB-C port and a built-in USB-C cable that deliver up to 12W of output for rapid charging. The device has built-in wall prongs for rapid recharging of the powerbank.

Portable Charger
This 22.5W 20000mAh (a full week’s worth) airline-approved Portable Charger/Power Bank is compatible with phones, tablets, and smaller devices like AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, fitness trackers, smartwatches, etc.. Ports: 2 USB outs and 1 USB-C in/out. Includes instruction manual.

Power Bank Station
Take portable power anywhere (Camping, Traveling, or for Emergencies) and deliver 300W and 90,000mAh (288Wh) to your devices. Fast charge with two 140W two-way USB-C ports. The LiFePO4 batteries, smart temperature control, and impact-resistant design ensures this power station lasts for years, providing reliable and durable performance in any situation. There are 7 Device Charging Ports: 1× car socket (120W), 2× USB-C (140W), 1× USB-C (100W), 1× USB-C (15W), and 2× USB-A (12W). Includes instruction manual.

Projector (no screen)
This lamp based projector is capable of displaying 4,000 Lumens at its brightest setting with a native resolution of 1024x768. Bag includes projector, power cord, remote, VGA-DP adapter, and instruction manual.

Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L Mobile Hotspot
Verizon mobile hotspot for a WiFi connection at home or on-the-go. Kit comes with hotspot, carrying case, charger, and instruction card. Here are the policies.
Vehicle

Car Battery Charger
NOCO GENIUS1 car battery charger for 6-volt and 12-volt. Compatible with all types of gas and diesel vehicles - Charge and maintain cars, automobiles, motorcycles, dirt bikes, scooters, mopeds, lawn mowers, ATVs, UTVs, tractors, trucks, SUVs, RVs, campers, trailers, boats, PWCs, jet skis, snowmobiles, golf carts, classic cars, and more. Kit includes car battery charger, clamps, and instruction manual.

Car Diagnostic Scanner
The Motopower car OBD2 diagnostic code reader/engine fault scanner features a built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, which helps you to determine the cause of the engine light, read code, erase code, view freeze frame, I/M ready, vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, get vehicle speed information, calculate load value, engine coolant temperature, get engine speed, etc. (ABS / Airbag codes are NOT Supported). The scanner supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. 6 languages are supported: English, German, Dutch, Spanish, French, & Italian. Note: It is able to read and clear check engine information which is part of OBDII system, but it cannot work with non-OBDII systems, including ABS / Airbag / Oil Service Light, etc.. Kit includes car diagnostic scanner and instruction manual.

Jumper Cables
6-gauge, 16 foot long, Energizer jumper cables for jump starting dead or weak car battery.

Looking for assistive technology? Visit Maine CITE here in Augusta

The Maine CITE program helps people of all ages and all abilities explore tools and technologies to make life easier. Maine CITE also provides services to caregivers, family members, employers, educators, health care providers, social service providers and others seeking assistive technology information.

Their services are available to all Maine residents and no documentation of disability is required.

If you need a CCTV/Video Magnifier, we have one here at Lithgow Public Library. We cannot circulate it in our Library of Things Collection, however, if you’d like to use it within the library, please ask a Librarian and we can set it up for you.