More than just books available at Esky library
‘Library of Things’ provides hobby equipment from telescopes to cake pans
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ESCANABA -- In addition to the books, movies and audio CDs available for members to borrow, the Escanaba Public Library also possesses a "Library of Things" -- paraphernalia for a number of hobbies.
The collection is still being built, but at present, it includes items geared towards those interested in fishing, astronomy, baking and more.
"It's an extension of our mission," said Library Director Carolyn Stacey.
The mission statement is as follows: "The Escanaba Public Library connects people through information, opportunities and ideas to inspire lifelong enrichment and enjoyment."
Supplying equipment as well as information is just another way the library provides people with access.
After seeing fishing poles available to check out at another library a few years ago, "I thought it would really make sense here, especially with the fishing organizations," said Stacey. She looked into bringing such a program to Escanaba, believing it to be "a really nice match for our outdoor community."
The Great Lakes Bay de Noc Sportsfishermen funded the library's acquisition of five poles and tackle kits in 2019. They later added another five, geared more towards young anglers.
"We try to do a lot for the kids, the next generation, to get them involved -- and just a lot for the community in general," said Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sportsfishermen Secretary Bill Herbst.
Following the donation to the library in Escanaba, the group expanded upon the idea, also providing similar sets to the Gladstone Public Library, the Gladstone Harbormaster and the Escanaba Harbormaster. Periodically, members of the group stop in to check on the poles and complete any necessary repairs.
"We were really grateful when they kind of adopted it," said Stacey. "They're the experts on fishing equipment, not the library, so they know what to do if something comes back damaged.
Similarly, Dan Young from the Delta Astronomical Society keeps tabs on the telescope that also belongs to the "Library of Things."
Stacey said, "He comes in and tinkers with it… Sometimes it'll come back maybe a little sandy; he cleans it."
She expressed appreciation for both groups' cooperation in helping maintain the library's collection.
The newest addition to the "Library of Things" is an assortment of cake pans, some in specialty shapes. It was made possible by donation.
"We have a binder that has a picture of every cake pan," said Stacey. "Maybe you want to make an Elmo cake or a heart-shaped cake. Then we retrieve that for you and you check it out with your card. Super simple."
Also available to borrow from the "Library of Things" are chromebooks, iPads, hotspots, and a public address (P.A.) system. Stacey said the Escanaba Public Library will probably add a few more things that they own but don't have frequent need for, such as a green screen.
"It's what libraries do -- share resources, make things accessible so that people can try something new," said Stacey.
In order to check things out, a person must be 18 or older and have a library card in good standing.