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With your OC Public Libraries card, you have access to much more than books! The Library of Things collection includes backpacks and kits with themed materials, games, and technology for you to checkout. Check back for updated items and collections!
Links in this section relate to BodyTo check out a Library of Things item, you must have a full-privileges OC Public Libraries card in good standing.
To check out Chromebooks, Kitchen Tools, Musical Instruments, Technology Gadgets, Tools, Toys not in backpacks, Outdoor Items, Garden Tools, Arts & Crafts, Educational Items, and Outdoor Games, you must be 18 and older.
The Library of Things collection is housed at all OC Public Libraries’ branches. Search the library catalog to see information about specific items carried at each branch.
Links in this section relate to BodyBackpack Kits, Book Club Kits, Tabletop Games, Chromebooks, Hotspots, Kitchen Tools, Technology Gadgets, Tools, Toys, Musical Instruments, Outdoor Items, Garden Tools, Arts & Crafts, Educational Items, and Outdoor Games. Search the library catalog to see information about individual items.
Links in this section relate to BodyIn addition to locating items through the Library of Things home page, there are many ways you can find these items by searching the catalog directly. You can search the catalog by :
Select your item from the Library of Things display at the available libraries. The item can then be checked out at the self-checkout stations using your library card or at the service desk. Not all items are on display due to size, so inquire with library staff by bringing the displayed placeholder to the service desk.
Because of the delicate nature of the items and their size, Library of Things items must be returned on or before the due date inside the same branch library you checked out the item. Do not place in the bookdrop.
Before checking out item, borrowers should review item in the presence of library staff to confirm it is complete and undamaged.
If item is lost or damaged, please report the item immediately to your library.
The borrower is solely responsible for the item and will be billed for reasonable repair or replacement costs associated with damage or loss of item and/or peripherals due to neglect or abuse.
Links in this section relate to BodyThe checkout period is three weeks.
Each type has different renew or hold policies. See each section on the Library of Things page for more information.
Links in this section relate to BodyEach type has different limits. See each section on the Library of Things page for more information.
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Approximately 10 children's titles from a selected series or author’s works stored in a backpack.
Get ready to explore! Each backpack comes with a California State Parks Pass, pocket guides, and a set of binoculars.
Get ready for school with OC Public Libraries Kindergarten Readiness Backpack! Each backpack contains 1 backpack, 2 books, and supplemental materials to support different Kindergarten Readiness developmental areas.
Engage in sensory play and learning at home with games and toys that support motor skill growth, regulation, and social emotional development.
Hosting your own book club? Check out these book club kits providing multiple copies of selected titles and discussion questions.
Proper Care and Use
In collaboration with the American Heart Association, kits are available for checkout to accurately monitor your blood pressure at home.
Discover your musical talents! Check out our collection of musical instruments and accessories including drums, guitars, keyboards, metronomes, synthesizers and more.
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Try out a telescope, metal detector, and more!
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Checkout a projector for movie night, a karaoke machine for music night, or play those old LP's on a record player.
NEW!
OC Public Libraries' Seed Library pilot program is designed to promote community gardening and sustainable living. Thanks to a generous grant from the California State Library, this initiative is here to inspire community gardening and sustainable living, one seed at a time. Seed libraries help create habitats for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential for healthy ecosystems and food production. By giving our communities free access to seeds, OCPL helps families grow their own fresh produce, helping to foster environmental stewardship by reducing reliance on industrial agriculture, cutting down on packaging waste, and encouraging eco-friendly practices like composting and water conservation.
While we are not collecting seeds back, we encourage participants to let us know how things grow! Your tips, success stories, and suggestions for new varieties will help us keep blooming and evolving this program.
Seed Libraries are available now at six branches: Brea, Costa Mesa, El Toro, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, and Westminster.
Adult patrons can borrow up to three seed packets per month.
One checkout per seed variety each month to keep things fair and accessible.
Seeds are available while supplies last.
Check out an Acer Chromebook netbook to access the Internet using Google Chrome. Materials provided by the California State Library and the Southern California Library Cooperative.
As part of the Internet Access Initiative, Wifi hotspots are available at OC Public Libraries branches and Mobile Library.