The Sequim Branch is proud to house tens of thousands of books, on practically any subject that tickles your fancy. There is also an amazing variety of other forms of media, with over 11,000 DVDs and 8000 CDs. New titles are being added to the collection daily, but they are only one aspect of what your friendly local library has to offer. The NOLS Gear button on the library catalog page will guide you to the collection of unique and fun items selected specifically to enhance life on the Peninsula. All of the items that are mentioned in this article are available free of charge, and can be placed on hold with your library card through the online catalog at nols.org so they’re ready for you to pick them up and get going. Don’t have a library card? Don’t fret! They are completely free. Bring in some picture ID and a proof of address and you can be signed up for one in less than ten minutes.

NOLS is proud to partner with other local agencies to provide gear to help library customers get up and get outdoors. The “Explore! Olympic Pack” includes a prepaid pass to the Olympic National Park along with books on wildlife, the geography of the park, several maps, and binoculars. Need to get your exercise on? Borrow the library’s pass to the YMCA in Port Angeles or the William Shore Swimming Pool, Or snag one of the other cool backpacks and items that the library has on offer!

Each branch of NOLS has its own telescope available to borrow. Sequim’s telescope goes by the moniker “Orion,” and can be placed on hold through the library catalog at nols.org. Would you rather gaze at something a little closer to earth? NOLS also has Birding Kits that come with several bird-watching guides, binoculars, and sound recordings of birdsong.

And this isn’t the only equipment available to help you engage with nature! Interested in geocaching? There’s a kit for that! Want to explore nature in your backyard with the little ones in your life? There’s a kit for that! What about fun games and activities that are perfect for a birthday party or family gathering? Borrow a Rhythm Bucket, Bocce Ball set, or Ring Toss kit. All of these items and more are available at your local library, and are completely free with your library card.