Manhattan-Elwood Library Officially Adopts “Library of Things” Policies and Patron Waivers

Manhattan-Elwood Public Library District Meeting | January 26, 2026

Article Summary: Patrons will soon have new non-traditional borrowing options after the library board formally adopted policies and liability waivers to govern a “Library of Harvey” collection.

Library of Things Key Points:

• The board unanimously approved a new “Library of Things” policy addition to the district’s operational guidelines.

• Trustees approved a specific patron Agreement and Waiver to protect the district from liability when checking out non-traditional items.

The Manhattan-Elwood Public Library District Board of Trustees on Monday, January 26, 2026, voted to expand its lending catalog by officially approving policies and user agreements to launch a “Library of Things.”

A “Library of Things” is a common public library initiative that allows patrons to check out non-traditional, often physical or mechanical items—such as tools, baking equipment, electronics, or recreational gear—using their standard library cards.

To facilitate this new service, the board needed to establish formal administrative and legal frameworks. Under New Business, Trustee Patti Blatti made a motion to approve the addition of a formal “Library of Things” Agreement and Waiver for patrons. Because non-traditional items carry different risks and replacement costs than standard books, the waiver ensures the library district is legally protected when the items are checked out and utilized by the public. Trustee Amanda Dearing seconded the motion, which passed unanimously via a roll call vote.

Immediately following the waiver approval, the board tackled the internal administrative guidelines. Trustee Blatti moved to approve the formal policy addition for the Library of Things, permanently embedding the program’s rules into the library’s operational code. Trustee Julie Mason provided the second, and the motion passed unanimously.