By Kelsey on July 23, 2025
Make your library equipment checkout a breeze with LibCal's Equipment Lending. Whether you’re lending camera kits for class projects, VR headsets for digital literacy workshops, or specialty crafting tools for creative exploration, LibCal’s Lending Hub offers the control, flexibility, and transparency libraries need to cultivate spaces for learning and innovation.
Why Libraries Love LibCal's Lending Hub
With LibCal’s Lending Hub, lending out your makerspace items or tech equipment is simple and organized. Build a digital catalog to showcase everything from laptops to crafting tools, and streamline reservations across departments and locations. Enhance each item listing with quick-start guides, set up required virtual or in-person training for certain equipment, and even collect fees directly within LibCal. Keep patrons on track with automated email reminders or optional SMS notifications for pickups. Plus, seamlessly link equipment with LibCal Spaces so users can book a study space along with a projector, laptop, or any other needed tech in a single reservation.
LibCal’s Lending Hub equips staff with robust administrative tools to simplify operations at any scale. You can manage inventory down to the item or kit level, monitor item condition, log maintenance, set checkout durations, and automate overdue notifications – all from one dashboard. Staff can also generate usage analytics and export inventory logs for reporting, planning, and budgeting purposes.
Why Patrons Love Equipment Lending
- Intuitive, accessible process – whether reserving equipment in advance or on the spot
- Responsive web interface – easy searching, filtering, and browsing by category or availability on any device
- Independent borrowing – clear usage policies, real-time availability, and visual guides set expectations and empower patrons
- ILS integration – enable patrons to use their campus or public library credentials, simplifying account access
💡 Discover how libraries are using LibCal's Lending Hub through these real-world examples.
Ready to Start Your Lending Library?
LibCal’s Lending Hub is an add-on module built specifically to simplify the management and circulation of library equipment. If you’re already a LibCal user, our team can help you activate the Lending Hub so you can begin lending items right away. New to LibCal? We’re here to show you how the Lending Hub – and the entire LibCal suite – can elevate your library’s services. Get in touch to learn more!