Looking for a fun activity or project to do with your kids over the holidays? Pick up a “Take Home Kit” at one of our Metropolitan Library System branches. 

“Libraries started doing take home kits when we were open for curbside service only in May 2020,” Teen Services Manager, MLS Emilly Williams said. “Take home kits offer the library program experience to go.” 

Most Metro Libraries are offering take home kits during all of November and December. While many take home kits are specifically geared to children, some, such as the NaNoWriMo Inspo Take Home Kit offered at the Midwest City Library or the Family History Kit at the Belle Isle Library, are geared for adults. 

“Kits are provided for individual age groups — children, teens and adults — and cover a variety of topics and needs: literacy, arts and crafts, science and nature, DIY, cultural experiences, job assistance, life skills, STEAM and more,” said Williams. “They often include learning opportunities, links to and lists of libraries resources and recommended further reading. Sometimes take home kits have a Zoom component so participants can learn more as they share their project results with others.” 

Heather Kitchen, the engagement manager at the Patience S. Latting Northwest Library, says that take home kits provide a new avenue for programming and allows the library to increase engagement with community members. “Kits provide libraries a way to deliver unique programs to our customers at their convenience since they can be used anytime, anywhere,” Kitchen said. 

An interesting and very useful take home kit this holiday season is being offered by the Ralph Ellison Library from Nov. 29-Dec. 5 — Holiday Budget and Spending Kit. This kit includes tips and tools to enjoy the season without letting holiday spending blow your budget. 

While some take home kits require registration to reserve, others are first come, first serve while supplies last. To find out more about take home kits or to find just the right one for you and your family, visit metrolibrary.org/takehomekits.