Brooklyn, Say Hello to Your First Craft Supply Library
Crochet hooks, thermal laminators, and button makers are among the 31 items now available to rent from the Brooklyn Public Library’s new lending program.
The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) inaugurated its inaugural lending service for craft supplies on September 9, 2023. The introduced "Craft Supply Library" features 31 items such as crochet hooks, thermal laminators, and button makers available for rent. These craft kits, including linocut sets and woodworking apparatuses, can be borrowed for three weeks, while craft tools can be borrowed for one week.
Adult library patrons can borrow up to three craft kits and two craft tools at no cost, allowing hobbyists to partake in their interests without incurring substantial expenses. Library spokesperson Fritzi Bodenheimer informed Hyperallergic that the BPL aims to help New Yorkers with limited budgets and storage space.
BPL librarian Jessica Harwick, who spearheaded the project, explained that starting a new hobby often entails a significant investment in tools and supplies, and many individuals are uncertain if they'll enjoy the activity. The craft library seeks to remove this financial barrier, enabling more people to experiment with their creativity.
The library's collection includes a fourth-edition Cricut Maker, a $399 machine capable of cutting, etching, and engraving various materials. Jessica Harwick noted that starting a new hobby or learning a new skill can involve a significant investment in start-up tools or supplies, and not everyone knows if they'll like the hobby.
BPL's craft library, part of its "Library of Things" model, encourages the public to donate gently used tools or supplies to the project via their dedicated email (craftsupplylibrary@bklynlibrary.org). However, consumable materials such as yarn, paint, or glue are not accepted. The BPL initiated the craft library simultaneously with the opening of the newly renovated Arts & Music space on the second floor of the Central Library on Grand Army Plaza.
This new space, designed by Toshiko Mori Architects, houses a teen center and the Eastern Parkway Collection Wing, stocked with art and music books. Bodenheimer concluded that the craft library is part of a broader trend, extending the concept of libraries beyond books.
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