From the Maplewood Library:
MAPLEWOOD, N.J., October 13, 2026 – The Maplewood Library today announced the launch of its new Library of Things (LOT), expanding beyond books and media to lend useful and unique household tools, electronics, lawn games and family activity kits. Now available to Maplewood residents, the program directly reflects community input gathered during the library’s recent strategic planning process.
Generously funded by the Friends of the Maplewood Library, the LOT is designed to support sustainability, cost savings and community sharing. Patrons can check out items they may only need for a one-off project, want to test drive before purchasing, or find cost-prohibitive to buy outright.
“The introduction of the Library of Things is a symbol of the evolving role a 21st-century library plays in the community – offering shared resources in a shared civic space,” said Sarah Lester, director, Maplewood Library. “This initiative shows our patrons that their feedback truly matters, just like our recent addition of Sunday library hours.”
The LOT collection includes a wide variety of tools and recreational items, such as a power washer, a Vankyo Wireless LCD projector, Yoto and Tonie audio players, lawn games, binoculars and a Sony Blu-ray/DVD player. The collection will continue to grow based on patron suggestions. Most of the items are housed at the Hilton Branch, with select items available at the Maplewood Memorial Library.
“By sharing these non-traditional items, our community reduces waste, limits goods going into landfills and frees up space at home,” said Irene Langlois, manager, Hilton Branch. “Whether a resident needs a power washer for a weekend DIY project, lawn games for a block party or a DVD player to watch a movie they cannot stream, this service gives them access to equipment without the cost or storage burden of purchasing it themselves.”
How It Works:
- Reserving items: Adult Maplewood Library cardholders in good standing (fines under $10) can reserve items up to 3 months (90 days) in advance using the library’s online reservation system at maplewoodlibrary.org/library-of-things – the same convenient platform used for booking museum passes.
- Borrowing period: Items may be checked out for up to 14 days. To ensure equitable access, borrowing is limited to one LOT item per household at a time.
- Pickup and returns: Borrowers must be 18 years or older and present a valid library card or photo ID at checkout. Items must be picked up and returned in person directly to the Circulation Desk at the item’s designated home location prior to closing on the due date. (Note: LOT items returned via the Book Drop or to the wrong branch location will incur a $5 fine).
- Care and maintenance: Borrowers are responsible for returning items clean, complete, and in good condition with all included accessories and packaging. Late returns carry a $5 per day fine, capped at the item’s full replacement value.
For full program guidelines, safety policies, or to reserve an item, visit maplewoodlibrary.org/library-of-things.
About Maplewood Library
The Maplewood Library is a community-centered public library serving Maplewood, New Jersey through its Maplewood Memorial Library main branch located at 51 Baker Street and its Hilton Branch located at 1688 Springfield Avenue. Reopened in July 2025 following a massive rebuild, Maplewood Memorial Library is recognized as the first LEED Gold-certified public library in New Jersey, reflecting its commitment to sustainable construction and design. The public space is dedicated to learning, creativity, environmental responsibility and accessibility for all. Visit www.maplewoodlibrary.orgfor more information.
About Friends of the Maplewood Library
Established in 1942, Friends of the Maplewood Library (a 501(c)(3) organization) is a group of friends and neighbors who have joined together to support the activities and programs of the Maplewood Library. For more information about the Friends of the Maplewood Library, visit www.maplewoodlibrary.org/friends.
VISUALS: See attached a photo of a library patron who checked out a DVD player because he wanted to watch a movie he couldn’t stream. Photo credit: Maplewood Library.
