Should Public Libraries Lend More Than Books?
Learn topic-related expressions and join the speaking club to practice them!
Marhaban everyone! my name is Bilel and I'm from Tunisia . I have a bachelor's degree in English (International Relations). I have worked as a translator, International Business Developer and a director in a teaching center. After COVID, I started my carrier as a part-time English teacher in Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia. I'm an ambitious person, and never give up my dream of working for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tunisia, and why not be an ambassador someday!?
I'm thrilled to see you all in the Langclub sessions.
Topic guide Optional
A quick way to understand the topic and find useful language. Read as much or as little as you like.
1-minute overview
A Library of Things expands the traditional idea of borrowing. Alongside books, some public libraries now lend practical items such as tools, musical instruments, kitchen equipment, Wi-Fi hotspots, telescopes, games, and assistive devices. Supporters argue that this gives people affordable access to things they need only occasionally, lets them try an activity before buying expensive equipment, and may reduce wasteful consumption. It can also make a library a more visible centre for learning, creativity, and mutual support.
However, lending objects creates questions that books do not always raise. Tools and electronic devices require inspection, storage, repairs, clear instructions, and staff time. Libraries must decide whether public funding should prioritize these collections over books, programs, or digital access. They also need fair rules for late returns, damage, safety training, and liability. The central issue is not simply whether libraries should lend more items, but how they can share valuable resources without excluding people or creating unmanageable risks.
However, lending objects creates questions that books do not always raise. Tools and electronic devices require inspection, storage, repairs, clear instructions, and staff time. Libraries must decide whether public funding should prioritize these collections over books, programs, or digital access. They also need fair rules for late returns, damage, safety training, and liability. The central issue is not simply whether libraries should lend more items, but how they can share valuable resources without excluding people or creating unmanageable risks.
Useful vocabulary
Approx. CEFR · Topic relevance
Library of Things
A collection of useful physical objects that people can borrow rather than buy.
A Library of Things could help residents borrow a drill for a one-day home repair project.
circulation policy
The official rules governing how library items are borrowed, returned, renewed, or reserved.
The circulation policy should explain who pays if a borrowed item is damaged.
liability
Legal or financial responsibility for harm, loss, or damage.
Some people worry about liability if a borrower is injured while using a power tool.
equitable access
Access designed to be fair, especially for people with different incomes, abilities, or circumstances.
Equitable access may require free borrowing and instructions in several languages.
maintenance
Regular work needed to keep equipment safe and in good condition.
Maintenance costs may make a collection of electronic devices more expensive than it first appears.
underutilized
Not used as much as it could or should be.
A costly item may not be worth lending if it remains underutilized for most of the year.
Useful expressions
The strongest case for this is that...
Use this to introduce the most persuasive argument in favour of an idea.
The strongest case for this is that it gives people access without requiring them to buy rarely used items.
That benefit needs to be weighed against...
Use this to introduce a cost, risk, or competing priority.
That benefit needs to be weighed against the time staff spend checking and repairing equipment.
It depends largely on whether...
Use this to show that your view is conditional rather than absolute.
It depends largely on whether the library has enough funding for training and maintenance.
We should distinguish between... and...
Use this to make a useful comparison or challenge an oversimplified argument.
We should distinguish between lending a sewing machine and lending equipment that could cause serious injury.
A fair compromise might be to...
Use this to propose a balanced, practical solution.
A fair compromise might be to lend low-risk items freely but require an orientation for more complex tools.
Sources & further reading
Question list
- Ice breaking
- Main topic
- Free talk
| Q1. | Do you get a lot of free time or are you busy most of the time? |
|---|---|
| Q2. | Do you know the history of your family well? How far back can you trace your roots? |
| Q3. | When is the last time you couldn't stop laughing? |
| Q4. | What beautiful moment have you accidentally captured on your phone? |
| Q5. | Have you ever had a life-changing experience while traveling? |
| Q6. | Did your parents choose your name(s)? |
| Q7. | Describe a creative process that feels natural and intuitive for you. |
| Q8. | How do you recognize opportunities hidden inside problems? |
| Q1. | What non-book items should libraries lend? |
|---|---|
| Q2. | How could a Library of Things benefit a community? |
| Q3. | Should public money pay for tools and equipment? |
| Q4. | How should libraries handle damage, safety, and liability? |
| Q5. | Could lending reduce waste and unnecessary purchases? |
| Q6. | Which items would be too risky or expensive to lend? |
| Q7. | How might these services change the role of librarians? |
| Q8. | What would you borrow from a Library of Things? |
| Q1. | Have you ever shared an unforgettable meal with others? |
|---|---|
| Q2. | How much control do we have over the workings of our autonomous body functions? |
| Q3. | What makes kindness memorable in relationships? |
| Q4. | In your opinion, what makes a city feel welcoming or unwelcoming to outsiders? |
| Q5. | If you died today, would you have any regrets? |
| Q6. | How would you describe your friends? |
| Q7. | What recent observation stayed with you? |
| Q8. | What's the best piece of advice you've ever received? |
Rules
Please be kind and respectful.
Note: You can be banned for violating any of these rules
No flirting! Don't ask for other people's social network, number etc. if he/she refuses to give them.
Note: You can be banned for violating any of these rules
Give others an equal opportunity to speak.
Note: You can be banned for violating any of these rules
Avoid Smoking / Drinking while you are talking.
Note: You can be banned for violating any of these rules
Turning your camera on is mandatory.
Note: You can be banned for violating any of these rules
Ready to join the conversation?
Book your spot and bring your perspective to the discussion.
