Lambton County Library has introduced sports kits to its collection.
Library Services Manager Darlene Coke said it's part of their effort to promote health and wellness by encouraging physical activity and learning through play.
"Here at Lambton County Library we're always excited to provide information and resources to people so that they can learn new things," Coke said. "In this instance, people could perhaps learn a new sport like basketball, pickleball, baseball, or soccer. Brush up their skills, see how interested they are in it and whether they may want to pursue it more regularly as a hobby or as a sport."
Basketball kits include a ball and pump; pickleball kits have balls and two paddles; baseball kits contain four bases, a pitcher’s marker, bat, and ball; and soccer kits have a ball, cones, and a pump.
"We do have a limited number within our larger library system, which includes 25 libraries throughout Lambton County. So we do ask that people make reservations either through the online catalogue or by calling or visiting their local library and they'll get a call when it's in and available for pick up," Coke said.
She said there is an audience for these types of non-traditional items in the collection.
"Historically, libraries have been about books and in more recent years we're offering more opportunities for people to borrow other things, like walking poles or snowshoes," said Coke.
The kits can be borrowed for seven days with a valid Lambton County Library card.
Library cards are free for anyone who lives, works, studies, owns property in Lambton County, or is a resident of a First Nations community in Ontario.
