Library of Things

SJCPLS now offers mobile hotspots for checkout to resident and paid non-resident library patrons who are 18 years of age or older. Each hotspot kit contains a mobile wireless MiFi device, a charging cable and power unit, a carrying case, and an instruction card. Devices are first come, first served with no holds or renewals, or re-checkouts to the same household within 48 hours of return. One device at a time may be checked out per household.

Read the Mobile Hotspot Checkout Guidelines here. To learn more about checking out a mobile hotspot, call or visit your local library branch or Bookmobile.

Live a richer life filled with brighter reds, deeper greens, and stronger blues

Glasses are uniquely engineered to give those with color blindness the ability to see more of the broad spectrum of bright color most of us take for granted. Utilizing a patented light filter technique, our lens technology is applied with mathematical precision to address common forms of red-green color blindness. Learn more about how EnChroma glasses work.

Available at all locations. Glasses check out for a two-week period with the option to renew if there is no waiting list.

Celestron SkyMaster 20×80 Binocular.

20x magnification porro prism binocular. Giant 80 mm objective lens offers maximum image brightness in low-light and long-range conditions. Ultra-sharp focus across the field of view. Multi-Coated optics for sharp, clear views. Suitable for terrestrial or astronomical viewing. Protective rubber covering for ultra-firm grip. Large center-focus knob for easy focusing Integrated tripod adapter rod for ultra-stable tripod mounting. Long eye relief is ideal for eyeglass wearers. Soft carrying case included for travel and safe storage.

Available at the Bartram Trail Branch Library and Bookmobile. Binoculars check out for a 7-day period.

Orion StarBlast: #9814 4.5″Altazimuth Reflector Tabletop Telescope.

Available at the Bartram Trail Branch. Telescope checks out for a 14-day period.

NASA space scientists and engineers use telescopes and other tools to help them explore moons, planets, and stars. The items and activities in this Backpack will help you begin your space exploration journey. You will learn how a simple telescope works, program a fun robot, and read about space with the books that are provided in the Backpack.

Available at the South East Branch and the Bookmobile. NASA packs check out for a 7-day period.

Two versions are available – Adult and Kid!

Adult Kit contains 1 REI Co-op Flash 18 Pack Backpack, 2 books, binoculars with the case, compass, File folder with brochures: plastic, fabric, paper.

Kid Kit contains 1 Backpack with plastic, fabric, paper + 2 books, 1 Nature outdoor adventure set, 1 Nature bound bug catcher with habitat bucket, File folder with brochures.

Available at the Southeast Branch. Packs check out for a 7-day period.

SJCPLS has partnered with the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument to bring an exciting new experience for library patrons. We are currently offering five different National Park Service Travel Bags with myriad themes that are intended to enhance learning, whether for those who are homeschooling or who are just curious- they are filled with tactile objects and reading materials that mostly appeal to children. The five different backpacks are: National Park Service: National Park Service Travel Bag; National Park Service: American Civil War; National Park Service: Colonial Games; National Park Service: Early Florida; and National Park Service: Wildlife. Bags will check out for one-week periods with no renewals, and only one bag per family at a time. 

Available at the Main Library

Two chess sets available for in-house use at the Southeast Branch Library. Please ask staff at Circulation to request a board.

The Seed Library is a collection of open-pollinated and heirloom seeds that you can borrow to plant and grow at home. By saving seeds as a community we help create local seed stocks that are better acclimated to our unique climate and which support an abundant and genetically diverse landscape. Seeds are available for pick up at the Southeast Branch.