ROME — Jervis Public Library, 613 N Washington St., is offering a wide catalog of items this summer including ukuleles, fishing poles, disc golf, passes to parks and zoos, metal detectors, dolls, CD players, kilowatt meters, and blood pressure monitors.

For most items, the lending system is the same as it is for books, with the items being checked out for up to two weeks.

Along with the unique offerings, the library is also holding several programs in its building. Programs include music circles, story times, YMCA meetings, and book discussions.

“Our mission is to listen to what the public needs, not just from the library, what they need period. We want to start the conversation on what a library can do for a community,” said Lisa A. Matte, executive director at Jervis.

Matte said that the ideas for offerings all come from public requests. The system first came about when a group of people came to the library and suggested that they start lending snowshoes so that the public could use them for leisure in the winter months.

The library decided this was a good idea and began to offer the snowshoes for public use. Soon, their positive thoughts about the program were confirmed when the snowshoes were quickly all checked out, said Matte.

The library then expanded to other items based on public request. Matte said that one of the most popular items in the library is the ukuleles that are now offered.

“Teens gave a list of things they wanted the library to offer in spring. On this list were ukuleles,” said Matte. “We started with lessons and having a few on hand, then someone asked about a music circle and the program has expanded from there.”

The library now offers ukuleles, lesson books, and ukulele circle group every Monday at 6 p.m.

“The offerings give people options and allow them to explore things they otherwise couldn’t because of a financial barrier,” Matte claimed. “You do not have to purchase an item to learn about it. Instead, you can go through an exploration phase with the library items and decide whether or not you like them.”

Another example of exploration at the library is the sewing machines that are used by teens every week at 3:30 p.m. on Mondays. “This program allows teens to explore art and be creative through mediums such as sewing and knitting,” explained Matte.

However, some of the offerings at the library serve a more utilitarian purpose. The upcoming offering of blood pressure machines is a prime example. These devices were put in the library in partnership with the American Heart Association and provide patrons a way to monitor their health from home.

“The library offering all of these new items is better alternative because they won’t simply sit around and collect dust like they may at your home. You can use them when you need them and then return them when you don’t,” said Matte.

Matte also expanded on how having a “library of things” can help the public appreciate the local area.

“Our location in Rome is unique because we are able to experience both city living and country living,” she said. “The library serves to let people take advantage of this and enjoy their community. It shows people that there is a lot to do locally.”

And according to Matte, the programs have been effective at encouraging local enjoyment. “Public reaction has been very positive and many people are thrilled,” she said. “Circulation is just as good as it is for regular books.”

Jervis library is likely going to expand and continue to offer more items and programs, said the executive director.

“We have a method and a system, so we can expand out to all sorts of items. We aim to maintain a selection that is vigorous and varied.”