The Whitewright Public Library is expanding its Library of Things collection with ten new kits available for checkout, ranging from STEM to creative arts.

• Exploring Biodiversity: This kit includes a clip-on lens set for a smartphone, a pair of binoculars, a Community Field Book, and instructions to download the iNaturalist app. This data is used to create a living record of life on Earth that scientists and land managers could use to monitor changes in biodiversity, and that anyone could use to learn more about nature.
• Observing Pollinators: This kit includes binoculars to observe pollinators, a stopwatch to time observations, guides to identify local flowering plants, bees, birds, and trees, a field journal for participants to share tips and questions for the next kit user, and Lemon Queen sunflower seeds participants can plant to attract future pollinators to observe for continued engagement after the kit is returned to the library.
• Measuring Light in the Night: This kit includes an easy-to-use Sky Quality Meter (SQM-L), LED flashlight, constellation guide, and instructions to use the Globe at Night and SciStarter websites to share observations and data. The data is used by scientists to monitor levels of light pollution and help inform participants on steps they can take to address the impacts of light pollution on local energy consumption, plants, wildlife, and human health.
• Monitoring Air Quality (coming soon): This kit will include an AirBeam3, which is a palm-sized air quality instrument that measures PM1, PM2.5, PM10, temperature, and relative humidity. Its weather resistant enclosure makes it suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
• Energy Efficiency: Contains a power energy meter that can calculate and display how much power your appliance uses and how much electricity bill costs in cumulative time, and a draft check meter to measure energy loss and identify leaks.
• Weaving loom: Learn the basics of weaving with a 9” x 9” frame and tools.
• Scrapbook punches: Add a creative touch to your paper crafts with holiday and celebration themed punches.
• Portable Keyboard Piano: 61-key digital piano keyboard will be a perfect musical instrument whether for beginners or experienced musicians.
• Ukulele: If you’ve always wanted to learn how to play an instrument but felt too intimidated, the ukulele can be your perfect match. Besides being undeniably charming, the ukulele has so much more to offer.
• Kalimba: It's easy to learn to play the thumb piano. A great instrument for all ages.

In addition, we’ve added a “Boredom Buster” cart in our community room, stocked with small games, paper, pencils, crayons, markers, and more. Great for afterschool or anytime (and any age!).

You can visit our catalog at whitewright.biblionix.com, and select “Lists” to view our Library of Things collection. If you have a WPL card, you can place your reserve in the catalog and you’ll be notified when it’s ready for pick up. If you have any questions, please call 903-364-2955.

Funded by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (grant number CAP-22009). (2022)