The Library of Things

by Teresa Barensfeld

Have you ever wanted to try a new hobby or game, or learn a new skill, but were lacking the equipment needed? Are you looking at home maintenance and repairs but don’t have the tools you need? Good news—you can borrow many of these things, and more, at your local public library.

I recently visited the Chatham Public Library and spotted a knitting loom kit, containing four round looms, on display. Because of longstanding RA, I haven’t been able to knit the conventional way, using knitting needles, for many years. But I recalled using a small knitting loom to make doll clothes when I was a child. I decided to try out the looms and borrowed the kit, which also includes pompom makers. I made three hats! And pompoms! (After returning the loom kit, I decided to buy one because I so enjoyed using the borrowed looms. I never would have thought of this if not for our local public library!

Stop by the Chatham or Canaan library or go to https://chathampubliclibrary.org/books-movies-more/#library-of-things for a list of what is available. But if you don’t see something you’d like to borrow, ask one of the library staff or search on the library website; there are new things available all the time!

Now for deep thoughts: Besides my personal feelings at finding something so useful and enjoyable at the library, I think of the implications for us as a community, society, and country. Everything at our libraries is available to all for free to borrow. Classes and workshops are offered to all, again at no cost. Libraries represent one of the most open and egalitarian institutions in our society. Information and ideas are available to all—though threatened in many areas in the United States by proposed or enacted book bans. As the American Library Association states, libraries “are the cornerstone of democracy.” These precious resources call for our constant support and care.