VBPL’s Library of Things: A Whimsical Collection of Items for Everyone to Enjoy

It’s summertime, and the living is made easy at the Virginia Beach Public Library (VBPL), which offers way more than just books these days. The Library is all about making the most of summer (and beyond) with the Library of Things — a growing collection of fun, practical and just plain cool stuff to borrow.

VBPL is always looking for creative ways to meet the needs of the community, and that means thinking outside the traditional library box. Whether you’re looking to try something new, learn a skill, or just have fun, there’s something in the Library of Things for everyone, such as coding robots, surfboards, backyard games, kitchen tools, craft kits and more.

Learn Through Play (and Robots)

If you’ve got curious kids — or maybe you’re curious yourself — the Library of Things Coding Robots collection is a great place to start. Coding robots turn learning into an adventure. For little ones (ages 3-6), the Code ‘N Learn Kinderbot teaches early math, colors, shapes and basic coding ideas through play. And, for older kids or tech-savvy adults, the Sphero Robot is a programmable rolling robot that teaches coding through fun challenges — plus, users can make it light up, change colors, and zoom around. It’s a super-engaging way to build problem-solving and creative thinking skills through science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Take Fun Outside

Are you feeling outdoorsy? The Library of Things has you covered there, too. Check out the Explore the Outdoors Collection — perfect for beach days, park trips or backyard adventures. Borrow a pickleball set, grab a bug-catching kit for the kids, pack a picnic basket or start a garden with the gardening tools. And for family nature walks or weekend getaways, try one of the Discovery Backpacks. They’re packed with everything needed to explore local parks or one of Virginia’s 43 state parks. It’s learning and fresh air all in one!

Calling All Content Creators

For anyone who wants to start vlogging or filming an outdoor adventure, The Library of Things has GoPro kits ready to borrow. Choose from four different options: 

• GoPro Travel Kit for on-the-go vlogging 

• GoPro Production Kit for streaming and content creation 

• GoPro Sports Kit for action-packed adventures such as biking or surfing 

• GoPro Adventure Kit for hiking and exploring 

Each comes with a GoPro HERO9 camera and all the gear needed to capture something awesome.

New Additions You’ll Love 

VBPL is always adding new things to the collection. Some of the newest arrivals include: 

• Accessibility Kits – Tools and games designed for a wide range of needs, including support for vision, hearing, dexterity and communication.

• Memory Care Kits – Thoughtful activities that support memory and cognitive health.
• Crafts Collection – Crafters are going to love the knitting looms, crochet hooks, knitting needles in 13 sizes, wood-burning kits, colored pencils and stencils, and even Brother sewing machines you can check out. Whether a beginner or a seasoned maker, there’s something in the collection for all crafters.
• Toys Collection – This collection will engage young imaginations and elevate playtime. The collection is sure to meet children’s academic, social and STEM needs. Items in this collection range from wooden train sets, wooden tea sets, sensory blocks, pop darts, LEGO Duplo block sets, Lincoln Logs, Alpha Bots, Otamatones and more.
• Kitchen Collection (Coming soon) – Get cooking with this new collection to help with all baking, cooking and snacking needs. With this collection, try out some specialty kitchen tools to elevate a special event or occasion. This collection includes items such as popcorn makers, dumpling makers, crock pots, cake decorating kits, round cake pan sets, hand mixers, pizza stone sets, canning kits and more. 

So, whether it’s STEM, the great outdoors, creative projects or cool tech — the Library of Things at VBPL makes it easier (and more fun) to explore, learn and create. 

Come see what you can borrow next!