Simplify Library Kit Lending with LibCal's Lending Hub

From STEM exploration to storytime on the go, Library Kits are a powerful way to extend your library’s impact beyond the building. Whether you're circulating Book Club Kits, Early Literacy Backpacks, or Technology Lending Kits, LibCal’s Lending Hub makes it easy to manage checkouts, track inventory, and connect patrons with the tools and resources they need.

Build It: Create and Organize Your Kits

Each kit you circulate through the Lending Hub can have its own custom record with detailed descriptions, item lists, usage notes, and images. Whether you’re lending a Book Club Kit with 10 copies of a novel and a discussion guide, or a STEM Kit packed with hands-on experiments, you can tailor each listing to reflect what’s inside and how it can be used.

Organize your kits by category—such as “Early Literacy,” “Technology,” or “Programming Tools”—to help patrons and staff easily browse and book. You can even create dedicated public landing pages that show all the available kits in an easy-to-use, searchable interface.

Circulate It: Let LibCal Handle the Logistics

Once your kits are live in the Lending Hub, patrons can easily browse availability in real time and submit booking requests online. On the staff side, you’re in full control. Set granular booking rules to manage lending duration, booking windows, and buffer times. Use mediation tools to review and approve requests before they’re finalized, giving you added oversight for high-demand or limited items.

You can also designate private or staff-only equipment, making specific kits available only to certain user groups or logged-in users. From check-outs and returns to overdue tracking and maintenance, LibCal keeps everything organized in one centralized, staff-friendly system.

Why Libraries Love LibCal's Lending Hub

• Inventory Made Easy – Track what’s in each kit, manage multiple copies, and handle check-ins/outs with ease.

• Self-Service Booking – Patrons can browse, filter, and book kits online—no spreadsheets or phone calls required.

• Custom Policies – Set loan periods, buffer times, pickup instructions, and optionally charge a fee to book equipment, all based on your library's needs.

• Reporting & Insights – Get data on usage trends, popular kit types, and inventory needs over time.

💡 Discover how libraries are using LibCal's Lending Hub through these real-world examples.

Ready to Launch Your Library Kits?

The Lending Hub is an add-on module for LibCal, designed to help you manage and circulate Library Kits with ease. If you're already using LibCal, reach out to our team to get the Lending Hub module set up and start lending kits in no time. Not using LibCal yet? We’d be happy to show you how the Lending Hub—and the full LibCal platform—can enhance your library’s services. Request more info here!