The document discusses expanding library collections beyond traditional books and DVDs to include unusual items that can be borrowed. Some libraries have started seed libraries, cake tin collections, knitting needles, bike chains, exercise equipment, telescopes, science kits and more. These non-traditional items provide more choice for patrons, opportunities to try before buying, promote the library, and create partnership opportunities. They complement traditional collections and attract new members. The document raises questions about what unusual items would be appropriate and popular for individual communities.

1. Unusual
Collections

2. Why?
Expanding the collection and providing a more
‘hands on’ reference service
Offering more choice for the customer
Try before you buy
Cost prohibitive
Only need to use item once or twice
Great promotional opportunity
Appropriate for each community
Partnership opportunities

3. Seed Library
• Currently at seven of
our fifteen branches
• Complements library
book/DVD collection
• New library members
• Partnership with
gardening groups

4. Seed Library
• The donor provides the seeds and
provides information for inclusion on
the seed packet
• Seeds are packaged in seed envelopes
with a Nundle Seed Library label and
displayed ready for borrowing
• Seeds do not need to be returned but
people are asked to save some of the
seeds from the plants they have grown
to donate next year.

5. Seed Library
Barcodes for broad seed types are
kept on laminated cards at the self
check station and clients issue the
seeds by swiping the correct seed
card.

6. Seed library

7. Cake Tins

8. Knitting needles

9. Bike Chains
 Bikes were always being
left in the library foyer
 Customers concerned
they would be stolen
 Installed a bike rack
outside library
 Purchased bike chains
which can be borrowed
 Do not need to be a
member
 Foyer clear, bikes safe

10. Port Macquarie-Hastings
Seed library
Exercise equipment – pedometers, aerobic
steps, stretch bands, weights, yoga mats
Ukuleles – currently have 15
Coming – Raspberry pis

11. Camden / Narellan
Telescopes
• Based on the program being used at Ann Arbor
• Partnered with the local amateur astronomy group –
Macarthur Astronomical Society – which provides
technical support
• Appropriate for the community – Camden has an
observatory nearby
• 1 month loan
• Started with 3 but will soon have 4 more
• 35 reserves within 2 days of launch
Coming soon – Spinners and Weavers equipment

12. Randwick / Bowen Library
Spark! Discovery Boxes
• Science kits especially for 8-12 year olds
• Part of Spark! Science Clubs
• Created with the generous support of the Children’s
Discovery Museum
• Cover various themes such as microscopes,
magnetism, astronomy, weather
• Include activities, activity guide sheet, books and
feedback form
Coming soon to Narrabri Library

13. Overseas libraries
Philadelphia – Tie Library
Michigan – Power Tools
Rhode Island – Fishing Rods
Harvard Library – Dogs - Shih Tzu
King County Library – Kittens

14. Overseas libraries
San Diego – sewing machines (use in library)
Arapahoe – gadgets – GPS, robots, Nook, ipad
mini, video camera, exploration pass
(museums, etc.)
Ann Arbor – telescopes, art tools, art prints,
games, tools

15. Discussion / Questions
What items can you think of?
What is appropriate for your community?
Partnership opportunities?
Cross promotion
Refer to other community groups such as toy
libraries or tool libraries
Strategic plan

16. For further information contact:
Shiralee Franks
Information and Collections Librarian
Tamworth City Library
s.franks@tamworth.nsw.gov.au