Online catalog will provide resident cardholders free access to borrow tools, musical instruments, recreational equipment, and more

Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries (FVRLibraries) is expanding beyond its collection of books to offer a Library of Things, providing resident cardholders free access to borrow tools, musical instruments, recreational equipment, and more. 

Beginning November 17, library patrons can browse and reserve items through the library’s online catalog. Once the hold is ready, cardholders will receive a pickup notice and can collect their items at most FVRLibraries locations. Items are available for a three-week checkout period at no cost. 

“The Library of Things represents what libraries do best, providing equal access to resources,” said FVRLibraries Executive Director Jennifer Giltrop. “Whether someone wants to try pickleball, needs a drill for a weekend project, or wants to explore a new hobby like sewing, we’re expanding what it means to have access — and making it easier to learn, create, and try something new.”

This collection encompasses a diverse assortment of items across multiple categories: 

• Music & Audio: ukuleles, keyboards, podcasting microphones, and GoPro cameras
• Crafting & Sewing: sewing machines, sergers, and knitting machines
• Tools & Home Projects: stud finders, laser levels, drills and drill bit kits
• Hobbies: pickleball sets, metal detectors, and bird-watching kits
• Baking & Kitchen: specialty cake pans in fun shapes
• Learning & Play: educational toys, puzzles, and building blocks
• Tech & Creative Gear: projectors, ring lights, and blood pressure monitors

The launch of the Library of Things is made possible through generous support from the Library Foundation, which has invested $15,000 in 2025 to help build the initial collection. The Foundation has also committed additional funding in 2026 to grow and refine offerings in response to community feedback.

FVRLibraries welcomes patron suggestions for future additions to the collection and is accepting donations of new or like-new items that support creativity, learning, or everyday projects. 

Pickup locations: Items can be picked up at all FVRLibraries locations except Yacolt, Yale, North Bonneville, and Vancouver Mall. 

For more information, visit https://www.fvrl.org/library-of-things/. 

Information provided by Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries.