When you think of your local library, you probably picture shelves full of books, a cozy reading corner, or maybe a quiet study space. But did you know that libraries offer so much more?
Libraries have evolved into community hubs that offer a much broader range of resources—things you might not expect to find. One example of this transformation is the Library of Things at Mackay Libraries. This creative and ever-growing collection is a treasure trove of unexpected items that continues to surprise visitors.
From humble beginnings: The Library of Things
What began in 2021 with a simple initiative—loaning cricket sets to celebrate National Backyard Cricket Day—has now blossomed into something much more exciting. The Library of Things is accessible across all five Mackay library branches, offering a diverse range of items for loan that you wouldn’t typically expect to find at your local library.
From robotics kits and musical instruments to sewing machines, LEGO kits, and even switches, Mackay Libraries has built a collection that encourages creativity, learning, and play for people of all ages. It's not just about borrowing things, but about discovering new hobbies, fostering community connections, and making experiences accessible to everyone—whether it’s for a special project or just a fun weekend activity.
Growing the collection: from cricuts to yoga mats
As the Library of Things gained popularity, the collection expanded to include even more exciting resources, including board games, cricut machines (for those interested in crafting), painting supplies, and even yoga mats so the community could try without the pressure of buying something you may only use once or twice.
Enhancing the library experience: impactful partnerships
Mackay Libraries recognised the value of community partnerships to make the Library of Things even more impactful. They collaborated with West Iona Men's Shed to create a Seed Library and shared collection items with neighbouring Isaac and Whitsunday libraries.
Partnering with the Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens, the library now offers outdoor games and bird-watching kits for loan to encourage people to connect with nature and explore the outdoors while still benefiting from the library’s collection.
Recently, oral history kits have been added and are being provided on Country so that local First Nations people can preserve their own stories, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and shared.
Resource for the community
Mackay Libraries loaned 6,167 items last year, with laptops and iPads topping the list of the most popular items, followed closely by the Seed Library. The success of the program came down to three things:
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Library staff provide the right information and guidance around each item so that visitors could make the most of their borrowed resources.
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Access without the cost - a wide array of items for loan makes it easier for community members to access resources at a fraction of the cost—without the need to purchase something they might not need long-term.
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Sense of community - they have created a strong community program that enables a sharing of resources system that benefits all.
No longer just a place for books, your local library can now be a community hub where you can borrow anything from tech gadgets and crafting supplies to outdoor gear and gardening tools. The possibilities are endless, and The Library of Things is just one example of the many surprising finds waiting for you at your local library.
State Library’s enduring partnership with local government delivers more than 325 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) across Queensland. In every bustling city and town, libraries and IKCs are social, cultural and digital hubs that offer much more than you think.
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