Life can be expensive! It can feel like everything costs more and more. But did you know you have access to a local resource where you can find everything from microscopes and STEM kits, to toys, musical instruments, sports equipment, internet hotspots or even event passes FOR FREE?
Borrow almost anything you need, for FREE in the Library of Things collection
Yes, you can borrow ALL of these items – and more – for free at the Akron-Summit County Library! The Akron Library is much more than a place to borrow books or stop by for story-hour – although it has those things too. Over the years, the local library has become a true community resource.
One of its biggest gems within the Akron Library is its Library of Things (LoT). According to The Akron Library’s website, it offers multiple collections of items that can be used by anyone to pursue interests, further education, or provide entertainment, adding that, “Sharing, conservation of resources and the idea that you don’t have to have everything you need in your home are key to the idea of a central collection that everyone can use.”
How can the Library of Things help me?
While these collections can be great for anything from hosting a party to trying a new hobby. The Library of Things can also help families incorporate some of the learning through play recommendations from their Summit DD Developmental Specialists without additional costs. Here are a few ways to use the Library’s LoT to support your child’s development.
- Want to try our homemade playdough activity? The LoT has cookie cutters and kitchen tools you can borrow to help whip up an afternoon of fun.
- The LoT Education Collection has puzzles, story time sets, educational toys and games available to help little ones with fine motor skills, focus and engagement with a selection that is sure to keep your little one from getting tired of the same old thing.
- Need items to practice fine motor activities? Check out the Recreational Collection to find just the right item for your little one. This collection has everything from blocks that stack to tambourines that add an extra element of sound to your sensory play.
- Think outside of the box! Borrow a hotspot and take your learning on the go to stream a backyard movie under the stars or visit the local park and stream music while you take a nature walk.
- Want to explore the community around you? Your Akron-Summit County Library even has day passes in their Luck Day collection you can borrow to visit the Akron Zoo, Stan Hewitt or Children’s Museum!
- Summit DD has also partnered with the Akron Library on their Accessibility Collection. This collection is especially helpful for families who have children or adults with disabilities or special needs. The Accessibility Library includes items such as ramps, transfer slings, sensory activity boards, collapsible wagon, noise cancelling headphones, Talker Buddy communication device, sensory light board, and weighted lap pads, and more! It’s an incredible resource and available to you and your family for free.
- Check out the different collections available at the Akron-Summit County Library
How to access the LoT collections
To access the items in these special collections, you need to have a Akron-Summit County Library card. The good news is it is free and easy to get! You can apply online or in person. Visit the website to learn more about how to apply for your library card.
Get tips on helpful items from your Developmental Specialist
The Akron-Summit County Library’s LoT provides families access to hundreds of items without the burden and expense of purchasing these tools and resources. We encourage you to explore their collections or talk to your Developmental Specialist about items that can benefit your little one.
Questions about the Library?
For questions about library cards or borrowing items from their collections, please contact the Akron-Summit County Library.
