New “Funbrary” collection at New Bedford libraries

Interested in trying out a ukulele, a button maker, or an Atari? The New Bedford Free Public Library is excited to announce that a unique collection is now available for patrons to check out: the Funbrary collection!

The Funbrary is a collection of items that moves beyond the traditional materials found at a library. From a telescope to a portable DVD player, and knitting needles, the New Bedford Free Public Library provides patrons with access to a collection of items that encourages exploration, waste reduction, and learning while saving money.

“Rather than multiple families purchasing tennis rackets, keyboards, or giant Jenga, possibly to use for a short time, the whole community can now benefit by reusing these items. All items have an impact on the environment when they are manufactured as well as discarded. The Funbrary enriches our lives while reducing the total number of items needed in our area.” notes Marissa Perez-Dormitzer, Waste Reduction Manager from the Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District.

Interested in borrowing an item from the Funbrary? Any item in the Funbrary Collection is available for checkout for a week with a SAILS Library card. Borrowers must be 18 years and older and can have up to 3 items checked out a time. All New Bedford Library locations have a variety of items to be checked out.

“We are really excited to be able to offer something new for families in our community and can’t wait to see which items get checked out first,” said Olivia Melo, Library Director. “This collection was made possible through the dedicated work of Youth Services Librarian Bethany Coito and Marissa Perez-Dormitzer, Waste Reduction Manager.”

Many of the items in the Funbrary Collection were purchased thanks to grant funding from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

For more information, please call your local branch of the New Bedford Free Public Library.

• Casa Da Saudade Branch | 58 Crapo St. | 508-991-6218
• Howland Green Branch | 3 Rodney French Blvd. | 508-991-6212
• Lawler Branch | 745 Rockdale Ave. | 508-991-6216
• Main Library Downtown | 613 Pleasant St. | 508-991-6275
• Wilks Branch | 1911 Acushnet Ave. | 508-991-6214