Wayne County Public Library patrons went wild for zoo passes, historic site tickets and handy gadgets last year, according to a fresh recap of the most borrowed items from its innovative Library of Things collection.
Topping the 2025 list? The Akron Zoo Pass, giving families free entry to see animals up close. Close behind were passes to Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, showing locals love blending learning with adventure.
The Library of Things, a non-traditional collection at WCPL, lets cardholders borrow everything from tools and tech to games and outdoor gear. It’s all about pursuing hobbies, education and fun without the buy-in, as the library describes it.
What made the top 10?
Here’s the full rundown of 2025’s most popular borrows, straight from the library’s year-end graphic:
- Akron Zoo Pass
- Stan Hywet Pass
- McKinley Presidential Library & Museum Pass
- Pressure Washer
- Metal Detector
- Digital Film & Slide Scanner
- Ice Cream Maker
- Radon Detector
- Electric Knife Sharpener
- Laminator
These items highlight practical needs – like home safety checks with radon detectors – mixed with sweet treats via ice cream makers and DIY projects.
How the Library of Things works
Open to Wayne County patrons 18 and older, the program allows reservations through the library’s online catalog. Loan periods vary by item, typically a week for passes and gadgets, with some fees for late returns or damages…