In honor of National Library Week, we thought we'd take the opportunity to highlight some of the more unique items the Bloomington Public Library and Normal Public Library have available to check out ... other than books!
At the Bloomington Public Library you can find for loan:
Children's Discovery Museum Passes
The Children's Discovery Museum inspires the love of learning through the power of play! By checking out Bloomington Public Library's Museum Pass, your family can experience the museum's hands-on exhibits, classes, and programs at no charge. Passes check out for one week and are valid for 4 general admissions guests. These passes are very popular so it is highly recommended that you place a hold in order to access the pass.
Miller Park Zoo Passes
Miller Park Zoo offers many indoor and outdoor exhibits, as well as Zookeeper interaction opportunities which a family can enjoy at no charge when they check out Bloomington Public Library's Zoo Pass. The pass checks out for one week and is valid for 2 adults and their children (under age 18) from the same household. These passes are very popular so it is highly recommended that you place a hold in order to access the pass.
Kits for Kids
Find new ways to make learning fun with Bloomington Public Library’s collection of kits for kids. Kits can be found in the Children’s Department. No matter the child’s age, patrons are sure to find a kit that will give children a hands-on learning experience. Learn about available kits HERE.
Puzzles
Whether you are looking for something to do on a rainy day or looking for a quiet family activity, look no further than the puzzle section of our local library. View the Bloomington Public Library's puzzle collection HERE.
At the Normal Public Library you can find for loan:
Chromebook Kits
Chromebook Kits contain a Chromebook, mobile internet hotspot, stylus, and a microphone headset. Perfect for schoolwork, job interviews, Zoom meetings, and so much more! These kits are free to checkout and are available to all cardholders. Kits check out for two weeks and are renewable. Learn more HERE.
STEM, Coding and Tech Toys
Introduce programming, robotics, electronics, science and more by checking out a STEM or coding toy from the Normal Public Library. The library's collection includes items such as Code Hopper, Dash & Dot Robots, GoCube Edge, Makey Makey, Ozobot Bit Robot, Sphero Mini, Tiggly Shapes, and more! Find them all HERE.
Lawn Games
Get outside and play with a little help from the Normal Public Library. Check out a collapsible game of corn hole, tumbling blocks, ring toss, and more. View the outdoor game collection HERE.
A Ukelele
The NPL's Library of Things is home to a Ukelele that is perfect for beginners! Check out this cool-sounding instrument HERE.
Both libraries, of course, also have plenty more to discover, from books to DVDs to regular events like story times, teen writers' workshops, make-it take-it craft opportunities. You can always find all library events on our Macaroni KID Bloomington - Normal calendar!
Stop by either library (or both!) and explore! What interesting thing can you find to take home?
