Library of Things

Manatee Library card holders (excluding reciprocal borrowers) are welcome to borrow any of the unique items from our Library of Things. Visit the library catalog to place on reserve!

Binoculars
Perfect for stargazing, comet tracking, or bird watching, the library's collection of binoculars may be borrowed for one week. Each Astroscan Helion comes with an astronomical chart map and instructions. For more information, see our Telescope and Binocular Safety Tips (acuerdo en Espanol)

gingerbread cake pan
Cake Pans
A variety of cake pans are available throughout the library system and may be borrowed for three weeks. Please return in clean condition.

Hotspots
WiFi hotspots can be checked out for three weeks. Use the internet anywhere there is cell service. All other data rates may apply.

Musical Instruments
Bongos and drums, keyboards, accordions, concertinas, Jam Stick, kids' percussion, and more!

Museum & Attraction Passes
Courtesy of The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, resident cardholders may check out museum passes, good for one visit for up to four visitors at one time. The museum is the largest Natural & Cultural History Museum on Florida's Gulf Coast and includes the All-Digital Bishop Planetarium & the Parker Manatee Aquarium. Restrictions apply.

Courtesy of Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary, resident cardholders may check out Big Cat sanctuary passes, good for one visit for up to two visitors at one time. Big Cat Habitat is a large-animal rescue in eastern Sarasota County; the nonprofit sanctuary is a permanent home for dozens of exotic animals, offers placement for animals in need, and works to educate the public about animal care and conservation. Restrictions apply.

Courtesy of Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish, resident cardholders may check out train ride passes for children ages 3-11 for one visit. Restrictions apply.

Book a Pass

stem kits

STEM and Early Literacy Kits
With a focus on reading, talking, singing, writing, and playing, each kit contains materials that can be used to develop these important learning skills endorsed by the American Library Association. The kits range in age from infancy through middle school, and may be borrowed for three weeks.

Telescopes
The library's collection of tabletop telescopes may be borrowed for two weeks at a time.
Generously funded by the Manatee Library Foundation, each Astroscan Millennium comes in its own case with safety equipment and two books on astronomy.
For more information, see our Telescope and Binocular Safety Tips (acuerdo en Espanol)

Ukuleles
The MK-S Pack includes a Makala Classic Soprano ukulele, Kala Klipz clip-on tuner, canvas bag with strap, and instruction booklet.

Sign up for free ukulele classes through our Events Calendar!