Watertown Library launches ‘Library of Things’ program

Snowshoes, KitchenAid stand mixer, power washer — these items have nothing in common except that they are all things you can now check out with your library card. On Jan. 6, the Watertown Free Public Library, 123 Main St., launched a new collection of nontraditional library materials known as the Library of Things, and they’re waiting to be used.

“A Library of Things is not uncommon in public libraries, and there are so many reasons we’re excited to now offer our own collection,” says Katie Kottas, Circulation and Access Services.

Of course it is fun, but it’s also economical. A lot of people don’t need or want to purchase items they may only use once or twice. Add city living to the mix, and storage becomes an issue. With the Library of Things, you can reserve an item for the time you need and then return it when you’re done.