Want to try a kayak or an air fryer? You can borrow one from ... Evansville's libraries

Sure, you're used to being able to borrow books, music and movies from Evansville's libraries.

But did you know that the same place that brought you John Grisham novels can also loan you a kayak? Looking to supplement that Julia Child biography you checked out? The Evansville libraries will let you borrow an airfryer, too.

It's all part of the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library system's "Library of Things," which offers everything from outdoor games to baking equipment and STEAM kits for free to the community.

"It's important because it gives people who can't afford things an opportunity to do things other than just books and movies," said Beth Heil, the EVPL's patron experience supervisor.

The "Library of Things" concept is a growing trend in the United States. In Oakland, California, for example, there's a lending library with 5,000 tools for home improvement, remodeling, repairs, gardening and landscaping.

In Evansville, the Library of Things boasts more than 300 items. They can be checked out for three weeks with three renewals if someone else hasn't placed a hold for the item.

Another cool item − a "Culture Pass" that allows admission locations in Evansville and surrounding areas for free. Currently, passes can be checked out for Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden, the Evansville Museum of Arts, History, and Science, the Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve, and an Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites Access Pass. The latter offers entrance into Angel Mounds, Corydon Capitol, Culbertson Mansion, Gene Stratton-Porter Cabin, Lanier Mansion, Levi & Catherine Coffin House, Limberlost, New Harmony, T.C. Steele Home and Whitewater Canal.

Heil said the most popular items in recent weeks have been the kayak and paddleboards, as well as kitchen appliances such as a stand mixer and airfyer.

"Not everyone wants to go and buy one right away," Heil said. "So it gives folks a chance to try different things and support the community by giving them the opportunity to learn new things beyond just books.

To check out any item that is listed on the Libary of Things website or in a binder at each EVPL location, borrowers must sign a waiver.

While every EVPL location does not house every item mentioned in the binder or online, shipping and pick-up through different locations are available.

Other items that can be checked out include:

• Board games
• Tents and other camping supplies
• Cake pans for holidays, Star Wars and cartoon characters
• Workout gear
• Musical instruments
• Audio equipment

More information can be found on evpl.org/libraryofthings/.