The library goes beyond books with the Library of Things collection at the West Chicago Public Library. This wide-ranging collection invites patrons to borrow a diverse array of items to fulfill a variety of needs. Libraries of things have been a growing services trend among libraries the world over. This revolutionary program for libraries could help our community to be more sustainable, more affordable, and more curious.
From cutting-edge technology gadgets to recreational equipment and tools of all sizes, the Library of Things offers a selection of items that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. With the resources available for free in WCPLD’s library of things, you could discover new hobbies, enhance your skills, or simply try out something new without the commitment of ownership. Whether you’re interested in photography and want to experiment with a digital camera, exploring the cosmos with a telescope kit, or expressing your creativity with a sewing machine, the Library of Things has you covered.
Starting new hobbies or trying something new can come with a hefty price tag, especially if you are just getting started. With the library of things, you could borrow instead of buy. This gives you the opportunity to try new things with essentially no risk or commitment. The library of things is a powerful service we offer to the greater Western DuPage County community allowing our neighbors to do more at low cost.
This collection fosters a sense of community by providing opportunities for shared experiences and learning. It promotes sustainability by encouraging the reuse of items that might otherwise go unused, promoting both environmental consciousness and community engagement. Many of us have had a project in the past that requires a specific tool or technology, forcing us to buy it or borrow directly from a neighbor, only for that tool to be thrown away or never used again. As the library of things collection expands, we hope to include things that will be useful to the community, allowing our patrons to do more, with less cost to them, and less waste for the world.
The Library of Things at West Chicago Public Library transforms the traditional concept of a library, embracing the idea that learning and exploration extend outside of the written word. Come and explore this collection. The choices are as diverse as the community we serve. So, next time you have a project that needs a specific tool, check to see if you could borrow it from the West Chicago Public Library District first! We hope that this collection can grow with our community, so learning about what types of items you need is the best place to start. If you don’t see the item you were hoping to borrow, please let us know by giving us a call at 1-(630)-231-1552, sending us an email at ask@wcpld.info, by dropping by the library in person, or by filling out a purchase request form.
Borrowing Guidelines
- Patrons must be at least 18 years old and have a West Chicago Public Library card to borrow items.
- Each item checks out for 7 days and can be renewed 2 times if no one else has placed a hold on the item.
- Patrons can place holds on Library of Things via our online catalog or by contacting the Adult Services Reference Desk at
630-231-1552 ext. 122 - Each item has replacement costs if lost or damaged.
- All Library of Things items must be picked up at and returned to the Circulation Desk.
- Please do not place Library of Things items in the outside drop box or lobby book return.
- Patrons must be at least 18 years old and have a West Chicago Public Library card to borrow items.
- Each item checks out for 21 days and can be renewed 2 times if no one else has placed a hold on the item.
- Patrons can place holds on Library of Things via our online catalog or by contacting the Adult Services Reference Desk at
630-231-1552 ext. 122 - Each item has replacement costs if lost or damaged.
- All Library of Things items must be picked up and returned to the Circulation Desk.
- Please do not place Library of Things items in the outside drop box or lobby book return.
- Checks out for 7 days and can be renewed 2 times if no one else has placed a hold on the item.
- Patrons can place holds on Library of Things via our online catalog or by contacting the Adult Services Reference Desk at
630-231-1552 ext. 122 - Item has replacement costs if lost or damaged.
- Telescope must be picked up at and returned to the Circulation Desk.
- Please do not place Telescope in the outside drop box or lobby book return.
Adapter Cable: HDMI to DVI– 6 feet
Enables connecting newer HDMI-equipped devices (digital signal output) to older VGA analog signal input monitors and projectors. It does not work in the opposite direction, and is not a bi-directional adapter.
Adapter Cable: HDMI to VGA– 5 feet
Enables connecting newer HDMI-equipped devices (digital signal output) to older VGA analog signal input monitors and projectors. It does not work in the opposite direction, and is not a bi-directional adapter.
Cassette to MP3 Converter (Dansrue)
It is Tape to PC Super USB Cassette to MP3 Converter. With the Tape to PC Recorder USB Walkman Cassette Player, you can convert all those cassettes into digital MP3 files. This nifty gadget can also play cassettes to give you that experience. Offering plug and play compatibility, it’ll be easier than ever to record those tapes onto your PC.
Chromebook 5190 2-in-1 with Mobile Hotspot Kit
The Dell Chromebook 5190 has a rugged design and long-lasting battery life and can get you up and running along with our additional Wi-Fi hotspot that provides “on-the-go” internet service.
Chromebook Kit (5190 or 11 3181 2-in-1)
The Dell Chromebook 5190 and 3181 have a rugged design and long-lasting battery life and can get you up and running for all you basic computer needs.
Digital Highlighter Kit (Scanmaker Air Wireless)
Scans printed text instantly to your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Mobile Hotspot Kit
Our hotspot is the perfect portable solution for home, work, and more. Cellular connectivity means no-hassle Wi-Fi wherever there’s coverage and allows “on-the-go” internet service.
Portable Scanner Kit (iScan Wand)
The perfect mobile scanning solution for users who need to scan a variety of documents no matter where they are. Weighing a little more than a 12 oz bottle of water with dimensions similar to a rolled-up magazine, it packs easily in a laptop bag and is powered by the USB port so you can scan anywhere – even when AC power is unavailable. Scan, save, and send important data wherever your business takes you with the MSRM iScan portable document scanner. Delivering full-function flexibility on the go, the iScan scans receipts, documents up to 8.5″ x 14″, plastic I.D. cards and more right into an e-mail, searchable PDF and more. USB powered, there’s no external power supply required and is Mac and PC compatible.
USB 3.5″ Floppy Drive
The Chuanganzhuo USB External Floppy Drive is an excellent way to gain access to any information or data located on legacy floppy discs.
Cricut EasyPress 2 Ki
Take on just about any heat transfer project with Cricut EasyPress 2, your no-stress heat press. Combining the speed of a heat press and the convenience of an iron, Cricut EasyPress 2 gives you fast, effortless results that really last, even after repeated washes. The advanced the heat plate design reaches edge-to-edge heat up to 400 ºF (205 ºC). Eliminate guesswork with rigorously tested time and temperature settings for every project, apply heat, and when the beep sounds, you’re done! Helpful safety features include an insulated Safety Base and auto-shutoff feature. Cricut EasyPress 2 is lightweight and easy to store, and compatible with major brands of iron-on (HTV), Infusible Ink & sublimation products.
Jewelry-Making Tools Kit
All you need for jewelry making and jewelry repair projects. You can use it from beginner to professional and you will enjoy and love jewelry DIY projects.
Knitting Learning Kit
Laminator Kit (Crenova A4)
The user-friendly starter set includes useful tools- laminator, paper trimmer, and corner rounder. With optimized, extremely simplified operations, this basic laminator is ideal for home, office, and school projects. The impressive 3-5 min heat-up time and remarkable 250mm/min laminating speed deliver an effective & efficient production. It laminates up to 50 A4 sheets per hour and is compatible with 2 x 2.5mil~ 2 x 4mil pouches.
Large Magnifying Glass Kit
Long Knitting Loom Kit
Long knitting loom set 4 sizes: S- 26 cm/10.2 in, M- 36 cm/14 in, L- 47 cm/18 in, XL- 58 cm/ 22.8 in. Super easy and quick knitting on a loom for both young and old. You can use these make scarves, hats, socks, shawls, and blankets for your family. Made of sturdy plastic material, which is resistant to aging and has a long life. Ideal for knitting scarves, hats, blankets, and crafts, or explore other possibilities on your own. A great easy, funny, fantastic useful tool set for you. Suitable for beginners and experienced knitting lovers.
Paper Edger Scissors Craft Kit
Arts & crafts scissor set provides endless design possibilities for your albums, greeting cards, memory books, gift tags & other paper & photo crafts. Make intricate embellished cuts for distinct edging & borders. Add ornamental frames to posters, construction paper or your favorite Zink paper photos. Ergonomic soft grip scissors are comfortable for both right & left hand use; safe, easy-to-use shears feature razor sharp blades for precision cuts without the hazard. Art cutters let you execute incredible adornments for all your school & leisure projects; great for creating unique scrapbook layouts, bulletin boards & more.
Paper Punch Craft Kit
Are you still cutting images freehand? Do you still find it difficult to cut out hollow pictures in a limited time? Try our Katfort and BearBoss paper puncher kit! You can get a variety of image punchers at all once with simple operation that produces clear punch-out images and frames.
Paper Quilling Slotted Tools Kit
It is easier to twirl paper and hold comfortably with our quilling tools that also can help to apply adhesive glue evenly. Make various shapes and sizes of rolls with the ergonomically designed curling coach and normal sized slotted pen. The bone folder is suitable for quilling, leather shaping, trimming, letter openers as well as other uses. A wonderful quilling kit for beginners and must-have for quilling lovers.
Round Knitting Loom Kit
Can assist in making scarves, hats, socks, shawls, gloves, and much more. Easy and quick knitting for both beginners and pros. Features five sizes of round looms, four sizes of pompom makers, two plastic needles, and a hook.
Sewing Machine (Brother)
Brother LX3817 17-Stitch Full-size Sewing Machine. Start exploring the creative possibilities of sewing with this exceptionally easy to use, full size sewing machine. Select from 17 built-in sewing stitches, including a blind hem stitch, four-step auto-size buttonhole, zigzag and couching stitches. Selecting a stitch is as easy as turning the dial, and the included instructional CD takes you through how to set up and use your machine.
Trimmer Kit (Fiskars SureCut)
By constantly seeking ways to improve creators’ pain points, Fiskars makes it easy for you to explore exciting new territory with simple, uniquely useful tools designed to last a lifetime. Whether you want to create your own style or put a stamp on the place you call home, our intuitive, quality cutting tools are designed with your passion in mind.
Kindle Adult Contemporary 1 eReader
A selection of Adult Contemporary titles compiled by West Chicago Library staff.
Kindle Mystery/Suspense 1 eReader
A selection of suspense and mystery titles compiled by West Chicago Library staff.
Kindle Romance eReader
A selection of romance titles compiled by West Chicago Library staff.
Checkers & Tic-Tac-Toe Game Kit
Chess Game Kit
Gaming Headset (Kotion EACH Pro)
KOTION EACH G2000 Gaming Headset with exquisite craftsmanship and fashion appearance, bring you excellent gaming hearing experience. Provide vivid sound field, sound clarity, sound shock feeling, capable of various games. Its super soft Over-ear pads is more comfortable for long time wear, and it is a great headphone especially perfect for gamer! Headset integrated onmi-directional microphone can transmits high quality communication with its premium noise-concellng feature, can pick up sounds with great sensitivity and remove the noise, which enables you clearly deliver or receive messages while you are in a game. Long flexible mic design very convenient to adjust angle of the microphone.
Low-Vision Playing Cards and Dice Kit
Scrabble Game Kit
Could the luck of the draw win you the game? Use your letters to score points and challenge your friends and family. It’s your word against mine!
Scythe Game
Settlers of Catan Game
Settlers of Catan 5-6 Player Extension
Silver Game Kit
Your village is overrun with Werewolves. Tourism is the lifeblood of your usually quiet new England burg, so you’ll need to eliminate them quickly. Your neighboring villages are doing the same, however, so now it’s a race to see which village can get rid of Werewolves the fastest. Silver is a fast, engaging card game that you can learn in minutes. Use your residents’ Special abilities and activate your secret weapon … Silver. When you think you have reduced The Werewolf population more than your neighbors, call for a vote; the player with the fewest Werewolves wins!
Wireless Controller (Playstation Dualshock 4)
The DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless controller for the PlayStation 4 system defines the next generation of play, combining revolutionary features with intuitive, precision controls.
Wireless Controller (Xbox)
Elevate your game. Stay on target with textured grip. Also includes Bluetooth for gaming on Windows 10 devices.
Wireless Controller Kit (Wii Remote and Nunchuk)
Connect the Nunchuk controller to the Wii Remote and get ready. You’ve just begun a journey into the most immersive, heated gameplay experience ever offered.
Blood Pressure Monitor Kit (Omron 5 Series)
This device is a digital monitor intended for use in measuring blood pressure and pulse rate in ADULT patient population. The device detects the appearance of irregular heartbeats during measurement and gives a warning signal with the measurement result.
Omron 5 Series Blood Pressure Monitor uses the oscillometric method of blood pressure measurement. This means the monitor detects your blood movement through your brachial artery and converts the movements into a digital reading. An oscillometric monitor does not need a stethoscope so the monitor is simple to use.
Battery Tester Kit
A universal tester that checks regular or rechargeable AA, AAA, C, D, 1.5V, 9V, and button batteries.
Bulb & Fuse Tester Kit
Fixes most incandescent light sets with the squeeze of a trigger and detects circuit interruptions with a voltage detector. For use with pre-lit holiday décor.
Digital Luggage Scale Kit
Digital Scale Kit
Garden Hand Tools Kit
The set is lightweight and perfect for home and garden use.
Home Repair Tool Set Kit
Kit includes tools for use for home, garage, work, bike repair, basic automotive projects, and more.
Infrared Thermometer Kit
Measures the surface temperature of objects or liquids while cooking or doing crafts. Not suitable for human internal body temperature measurement. Requires two AAA batteries.
Label Maker
Laser Level Kit
Accurately measure distance, area and volume with this laser measuring tool. Make sure all your projects are level with the separate laser level.
Paper Shredder Kit
Shred 10 sheets at a time with this cross-cut & jam-proof shredder with a 4-gallon bin.
Power Meter Kit (Kill-A-Watt)
Meter accurately measures electricity needed to operate many household items such as refrigerators, space heaters, lights, video games, televisions and entertainment centers.
Soil Moisture Light Tester Kit (Sonkir)
This 3-in-1 soil moisture meter is designed to better know the condition of your plant, detect soil moisture, help you know the pH value of the soil, determine if plants get enough sunlight to keep plants grow healthier !
Stud Finder (ProSensor 710+ Professional)
Designed with the professional contractor in mind, the 710+ is our most accurate and deepest sensing stud finder. It has a max detection depth of 1.6” while still being tough enough to withstand being dropped off your ladder or tossed into the back of your truck. The 7” extra-wide LED display not only shows you the center and edge of studs, it can also save you time and read the width of multiple studs that you’ll find around windows and doors. We’ve also given you other the features to make your job easier.
Thermal Leak Detector Kit (Black + Decker)
Save on your home’s heating and cooling costs by detecting and repairing leaks in locations like windows, walls, ductwork, drafty fireplaces, and more. A color-changing LED and easy-to-read display screen give you quick and intuitive feedback, while the ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip. A 5-step guide is included to help you fix simple leaks.
Bluetooth Speaker (SoundCore 2)
SoundCore 2 delivers astonishing sound, boosted bass, and incredible build quality. 24-hour playtime allows you to live and breathe music, every second of the day. Heighten the experience of every party and any adventure with powerful, distortion-free sound.
CD Player Kit (Portable Bluetooth)
The HOTT CD204 portable CD player can function wirelessly with two AA batteries and is compatible with CD, MP3, CD-RW, CD-R and WMA format. Includes five sound effects: BS, Pop, Jazz, Rock, and Classic with five play modes. CD player has built in Anti- Shock Protection, which provides a stable audio experience when moving with up to 45 seconds anti-skip protection for CD and 120 seconds anti-skip protection for MP3. The HOTT CD204 CD player uses HIFI decoding technology and latest advanced chip, high bit rate and sampling rate support HIFI lossless sound quality. An accompanying audio cable allows you to connect external speakers to play CDs at any time.
Karaoke System (Singstation)
Connect your smartphone or tablet for thousands of songs/karaoke videos from YouTube and all your favorite karaoke apps; No CDs needed! 2 ways to connect: Stream your favorite songs wirelessly via Bluetooth from a smartphone or tablet or use the aux-in cable and listen to this wireless speaker with room-filling sound and big bass. Voice effects: 3 voice effects (high pitch, low pitch and chipmunk) transform your voice for hours of fun. Includes: Speaker, Microphone, AC power adapter and cradle to hold your smartphone, tablet or other device.
Piano Kit (Hand Roll-up)
iLearnMusic’s Roll Up Piano is a highly function electronic keyboard that is made for portability, so you can create you music anywhere! Designed for easy storage and can take it with you anywhere! Perfect for classroom and group teaching! Our keyboard is filled with functionality, including 128 standard tones, built-in speakers, 15 demo songs, rechargeable battery, and multi-functional interface. Compatible with MIDI, audio connection, and Bluetooth connection.
Synthesizer Kit (littleBits: KORG)
“Both kids and professional musicians can explore the science of sound, make sweet beats and create instruments with this award-winning modular synthesizer. Co-designed with world-renowned electronic music maker KORG.”–littleBits website.
“littleBits is a system of electronic building blocks that snap together to turn ideas into inventions.”–littleBits website.
Turntable (Wockoder Briefcase)
3-Speed (33/45/78 rpm) turntable with built-in stereo speakers and plays 7″, 10″ 12″ records. Enjoy high-definition stereo sound with impressive volume. The turntable has a full range stereo speakers and stereo headphone jack. Offers portable suitcase design that is small and light.
Flexible Long Arm Holder Kit
UGREEN premium 360 degree adjustable lazy holder can let you conveniently view your devices at the ideal distance and angle when you are lying, eating, reading, cooking, typing, writing, watching movies or playing game.
Power Bank (Aibocn)
Aibocn power bank is specially designed with 2 USB outputs, providing a good solution for simultaneous dual charging and flashlight.
Camera (Fujifilm FinePix S1500)
Fujifilm Finepix S1500 is a digital camera manufactured by Fujifilm as part of their Finepix range. It is a superzoom compact camera, resembling a small Digital SLR camera.
Camera (GoPro Hero 5)
HERO5 Black is a balance of performance and convenience thanks to its 4K video, voice control, easy-to-use touch display and waterproof design. Now with QuikStories, HERO5 Black automatically sends your footage to your phone where it transforms into an awesome edited video. Combined with stabilized video, pro-quality photos and auto upload to the cloud with GoPro Plus, HERO5 Black gives you the power to tell your story.
Camera (Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W560)
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W560 14.1 MP Digital Still Camera with Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 4x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Lens and 3.0-inch LCD
Foldable LED Ring Light Studio Box Kit
Portable light box is specially designed for artists and online sellers, beginners can also use it to learn to shoot professional photos, and perfect for shooting small items.
Tripod (Zeikos Pro Series 59”)
Video Camera (Kodak Playsport)
With digital image stabilization and a water-, dust- and shock-resistant design, this camcorder makes it easy to capture sharp, clear videos and still images in varying climate conditions and features smart face-tracking technology for optimal portrait footage.
Projector (Auking Mini)
This projector can meet all your home entertainment both for indoor and outdoor. Providing you with the best home cinema or games experience. Perfect projector for outdoor movies.
Projector (Proxima DP2000)
The Proxima DP2000x Projector is a XGA Portable Projector. This lamp based projector is capable of displaying 1,300 Lumens at its brightest setting with a native resolution of 1024×768 . The internal 3LCD technology is an innovative 3-chip design that sets itself apart by delivering vibrant, true-to-life images with better color brightness and a wider color gamut.
Projector (QKK Mini)
This projector can meet all your home entertainment both for indoor and outdoor. Providing you with the best home cinema or games experience. Perfect projector for outdoor movies.
Recorder Kit (H4n Pro Handy)
The black Zoom H4n Portable Handheld Recorder with Onboard Stereo Microphone Capsule and versatile mic/line/instrument inputs lets you record up to four tracks of high-resolution audio in the palm of your hand. Plug in your favorite guitar and microphone, and enjoy unlimited overdubbing, amp simulation, and a slew of effects to develop your tracks into a polished mix.
Recording and Podcasting Kit (Samson Q2U)
Designed for accuracy, flexibility, and durability, the Samson Q2U Dynamic Microphone provides a high level of audio performance in every environment. Whether used in the studio, for public address or performances, the Q2U captures the natural, detailed sound and with its cardioid polar pattern is effective in minimizing noise and off-axis audio that can cause feedback. An extended range frequency response of 44.1 / 48 kHz, 16-bit resolution ensures optimum reproduction with super clear sound and with XLR and USB outputs you can easily record to any Mac or Windows based computer while at the same time connect to an analog mixer, preamplifier, or PA system.
Ring Light With Tripod Kit (Sensyne)
Sensyne selfie ring light features a high sensitivity touch panel design that has a longer life than traditional mechanical buttons. It provides full control to easily adjust the 3 color modes (cool white, warm yellow and daylight) and 10 brightness levels to meet your different needs. Perfect for Photographers, YouTubers, Vloggers, TikTokers, etc. Include is a tripod that extends from 15.7 inches to 50 inches and can be adjusted to any height within seconds as needed.
Voice Amplifier Kit
Wireless Remote Presenter (BEBONCOOL)
It is a great tool for PowerPoint presentations! With it, you can interact with our audiences and still maintain control of your laptop or PC. You don’t need to stand beside your computer or blackboard. With it, you have complete control over presentations!
Binoculars
Gizmos & Gadgets (littleBits)
“LittleBits … consists of tiny circuit-boards with specific functions engineered to snap together with magnets. No soldering, no wiring, no programming, just snap together for prototyping, learning and fun. Each bit has a specific function (light, sound, sensors, buttons, thresholds, pulse, motors, etc), and modules snap to make larger circuits. … littleBits are small, simple, intuitive, blocks that make creating with sophisticated electronics a matter of snapping small magnets together.”–LittleBits website.
Metal Detector Kit (PK-0075)
Sphero SPRK +
Equipped with Bluetooth SMART and a scratch-resistant, durable shell, SPRK+ takes hands-on learning up a notch. Programmable sensors like motor encoders, LED lights, accelerometer, and a gyroscope allow for countless experiences and coding conditions. SPRK+ will foster a love of robotics, coding, and STEAM principles… all through play.
Telescope (Orion GoScope 80mm)
The bin contains hands-on materials to encourage patrons to engage in learning about telescope operation and astronomy.
Bike Repair Kit
The portable bicycle repair kit can deal with most bicycle emergencies. Take this bicycle kit when you go out to ride, and then you can enjoy the trip without worry.
Code Reader Kit (OBDII & EOBD)
Classic design, fast scan and erase trouble codes, even a beginner can use it read the error code, find out what the problem is and perhaps fix it. Save money and time. It cannot read and erase ABS, SRS (Airbag), and other systems fault codes. Works on MOST 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. Supports English, German, French, Spanish, Finnish, Dutch, Russian and Portuguese. Easily determines the cause of the check engine light. I/M monitor readiness test, turn off the MIL (check engine light) as well as view freeze frame data. Read hard (memory) / pending (intermittent) and historic codes and show definitions.
Portable Air Compressor
Dual Screen DVD Player Kit
Portable DVD & Media Player (Sylvania 9” Swivel Screen)
Watch all your favorite DVDs on the go with the SDVD9020, 9 Inch swivel screen portable DVD player from Sylvania. The SDVD9020 has a built-in long life, 5-hour battery included! With a 9 Inch widescreen, the picture jumps out at you. The slim design lets you to take it just about anywhere you go.