Brooklyn Public Library Launches Craft Supply Lending Program

(MENAFN- USA Art News) The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) officially introduced its first-ever craft supply lending program on Wednesday, September 9. Patrons can now borrow from 31 items including crochet hooks, thermal laminators, and button makers through the new BPL Craft Supply Library.

The collection offers craft kits, such as linocut sets and woodworking apparatuses, available for a three-week loan period, alongside craft tools, which can be borrowed for one week. Adult library cardholders can check out up to three craft kits and two craft tools simultaneously, entirely free of charge. This initiative provides an accessible option for hobbyists seeking to avoid significant upfront costs.

Fritzi Bodenheimer, a spokesperson for BPL, noted the financial benefit.“All of us in New York are watching our budgets, and we have very limited storage,” Bodenheimer told Hyperallergic.“You can take something out from the library without that financial investment.”

Among the library's inventory is a fourth-edition Cricut Maker, a machine valued at nearly $400 that can cut, etch, and engrave various materials. Jessica Harwick, the BPL librarian behind the project, explained its purpose to Hyperallergic.“Starting a new hobby or learning a new skill can mean a big investment in start-up tools or supplies, and often people don't know if they'll like the hobby,” Harwick said.“This collection will help remove that barrier so that more people can explore their creativity and try new things.”

Harwick developed the concept by drawing on the existing“Library of Things” model, which encompasses all non-book materials available for rent from the BPL. This wider collection includes items such as David Bowie vinyls, culture passes to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and a Les Paul electric guitar, all available for free with a public library card.

The craft library aims to expand its holdings and encourages public contributions of gently used tools or supplies. While staff do not accept“consumable” materials like yarn, paint, or glue, they review potential donations submitted to their dedicated email, [email protected], on a case-by-case basis.

The launch of the craft library coincided with the ribbon-cutting for the newly renovated Arts & Music space on the second floor of the Central Library at Grand Army Plaza. This redesigned area, created by Toshiko Mori Architects, will serve as the craft library's home and also houses a teen center and the new Eastern Parkway Collection Wing, featuring art and music books.

Bodenheimer sees this as part of a broader trend for libraries.“It's really a part of a trend,” she concluded.“A lot of people think a library is just books, but it's a lot more. The craft library is another part of that series.”

Source: Hyperallergic

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