Library of Things – Winter – Cape Breton Regional Library https://cbrl.ca Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:57:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://cbrl.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cropped-CBRL-Social-Profile-32x32.png Library of Things – Winter – Cape Breton Regional Library https://cbrl.ca 32 32 Light Therapy Lamps https://cbrl.ca/light-therapy-lamps/ Sun, 30 Nov 2025 13:44:55 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=12790 Read More »Light Therapy Lamps]]> Beat the winter blues with a light therapy lamp from CBRL!

CBRL has a collection of light therapy lamps available to borrow.

Lamps can be placed on hold and delivered to the library location of your choice for you to take home. You may borrow the lamp for three weeks.

Request a Light Therapy Lamp

What is a Light Therapy Lamp?

According to MayoClinic,

“Light therapy is a way to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and certain other conditions by exposure to artificial light. SAD is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time each year, usually in the fall or winter.

During light therapy, you sit or work near a device called a light therapy box (or lamp). The box gives off bright light that mimics natural outdoor light.

Light therapy is thought to affect brain chemicals linked to mood and sleep, easing SAD symptoms. Using a light therapy box may also help with other types of depression, sleep disorders and other conditions.”

 

How to use the lamp

DO…

  • Turn on the lamp and allow a few minutes for bulb to achieve full brightness.
  • Sit about 6-24″ away from the lamp, with the lamp positioned slightly off centre.
  • Keep your eyes open, but DO NOT look directly at the light. Avoid wearing sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a hat with a visor as they block the good light. Clear glasses are fine.
  • Use it any time of day. Morning and mid-afternoon are ideal times, but NOT within 4 hours before bedtime, which can affect your ability to get a good sleep.
  • More information from Happy Light Manufacturer

Place a hold on a light therapy lamp today!

 

]]> Games to Borrow https://cbrl.ca/board-games/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 14:16:40 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=13230 Read More »Games to Borrow]]>

Our loanable collection offers a variety of games for different ages, interests, and skillsets to level up your next game night experience.

Games can be borrowed by CBRL cardholders with a loan period of three weeks.

View the collection
Assorted board games including: Outfoxed, Unlock It, Blockus, Don't let the Cat of of the bag, Wordle, and more.
]]> Stepping Stones https://cbrl.ca/stepping-stones/ Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:47:11 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=22517 Read More »Stepping Stones]]> Hop! Jump! Leap! Balance stepping stones are a fun way to promote physical activity, provide opportunities for development and growth, and inspire creative play.

Stepping stones provide the following benefits:

  • Promote active play and physical activity
  • Develop agility, balance, and coordination
  • Improve gross motor skills
  • Inspire imagination and creativity through open ended, flexible play
  • Provide opportunities for challenges and confidence-building.

The set includes 12 stones of varying sizes. The lightweight, space-saving design allows the pieces to stack on top of each other and store in the provided bag when not in use.

Stepping stones are made of a durable, slip-resistant polypropylene material and have a thick and sturdy rubber bottom. The maximum weight limit is 220 pounds, so the stepping stones can be used by people across a range of ages and sizes.

Request Stepping Stones Kit



Funding for the Stepping Stones kits was provided by Nova Scotia Health Community Health Boards Eastern Zone members: East Cape Breton County Community Health Board, Northside the Lakes Community Health Board, and Central Cape Breton County Community Health Board.

All borrowers must complete and sign an equipment loan form at the time of check out which covers the risk of harm or injury which may occur as a result of using the equipment.

Please return to the circulation desk. Do not place in book return drop box.

]]> Snap Circuits – Junior https://cbrl.ca/snap-circuits-junior/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 16:21:15 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=16974

snap circuits jr box

About Snap Circuits Junior

Snap Circuits Junior brings fun and creativity into the world of electronics! Create your own projects through designing electrical circuits with easy-to-use parts that simply snap together.

Contains 32 pieces

Please refer to the parts layout map included in your kit

Recommended age: 8+ years old

Snap Circuits kits can be requested through the SamePage Catalogue.

When available the kit can be borrowed for 3 weeks.

Request Snap Circuits Junior

Caution!

  • Adult supervision required
  • Choking hazard – not suitable for under the age of 3
  • Do not touch moving parts
  • Do not connect to electrical outlets or attach extra power sources
  • Do not leave circuit unattended
  • Read pages 1 and 5 of the Instruction Manual for more information

Getting Started

  • Take a look at the kit contents and make note of anything that is missing.
  • Next, carefully read pages 1-6 of the Instruction Manual as it contains important safety and parts information.
  • Start by placing the base grid on a flat surface.
  • You will need a power source for every circuit you build. Your power source is the battery holder with three 1.5V AA batteries (included).
  • Start building your circuit! Refer to pages 8-44 of the Instruction Manual for project ideas to get started.

Troubleshooting

If you are having issues with Snap Circuits Junior or have further questions, please visit these resources:

Additional Resources

Suggested Reading

Find these and more on samepagecbrl.bibliocommons.com

FEEDBACK

We’d love to hear from you! Please provide us with your feedback by filling out the feedback form included in your kit, or by filling in our online survey.

Give Feedback

STEAM Kits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is STEAM?

STEAM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. It is an approach to learning that uses these subjects as a guide to problem-solving, inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

What are STEAM Kits?

STEAM Kits contain hands-on activities that support STEAM-based
learning.

How do I check out a STEAM Kit?

For how long can I borrow a STEAM Kit?

STEAM Kits can be checked out online through the Cape Breton
Regional Library website (www.cbrl.ca), or in person at any of our
branch locations.

STEAM Kits can be borrowed for up to 3 weeks.

How do I return a STEAM kit?

STEAM Kits can be returned to any of our branch locations. Please
bring the STEAM Kit to the circulation desk. Do not leave in the book return dropbox.

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your STEAM Kit,
please contact your local branch or email us at info@cbrl.ca.

Explore More Steam Kits to Borrow

]]> Snap Circuits Arcade https://cbrl.ca/snap-circuits-arcade/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 16:14:35 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=16969 Cape Breton Regional Library > Library of Things > Library of Things – Summer > Snap Circuits Arcade

On this page:

Snap Circuits Arcade box

About Snap Circuits Arcade

Snap Circuits: Arcade brings fun and creativity into the world of electronics! Create your own arcade-inspired games and projects through designing electrical circuits with easy-to-use parts that simply snap together.

Contains 36 pieces

Please refer to the parts layout map included in your kit

Recommended age: 8+ years old

Snap Circuits Arcade can be requested through the SamePage Catalogue.

Once available it can be borrowed for 3 weeks.

Request Snap Circuits Arcade

Caution!

  • Adult supervision required
  • Choking hazard – not suitable for under the age of 3
  • Do not touch moving parts
  • Do not connect to electrical outlets or attach extra power sources
  • Do not leave circuit unattended
  • Read pages 1 and 9 of the Instruction Manual for more information

Getting Started

  • Take a look at the kit contents and make note of anything that is missing.
  • Next, carefully read pages 1-10 of the Instruction Manual as it contains important safety and parts information.
  • Start by placing the base grid on a flat surface.
  • You will need a power source for every circuit you build. Your power source is the battery holder with three 1.5V AA batteries (included).
  • Notice the black numbers labelled on the project diagrams. These show the order in which to place your circuit parts.
  • Start building your circuit! Refer to pages 13-76 of the Instruction Manual for project ideas to get started.

Troubleshooting

If you are having issues with Snap Circuits Arcade or have further questions, please visit these resources:

Additional Resources

Suggested Reading

Find these and more on samepagecbrl.bibliocommons.com

FEEDBACK

We’d love to hear from you! Please provide us with your feedback by filling out the feedback form included in your kit, or by filling in our online survey.

Give Feedback

STEAM Kits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is STEAM?

STEAM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. It is an approach to learning that uses these subjects as a guide to problem-solving, inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

What are STEAM Kits?

STEAM Kits contain hands-on activities that support STEAM-based
learning.

How do I check out a STEAM Kit?

For how long can I borrow a STEAM Kit?

STEAM Kits can be checked out online through the Cape Breton
Regional Library website (www.cbrl.ca), or in person at any of our
branch locations.

STEAM Kits can be borrowed for up to 3 weeks.

How do I return a STEAM kit?

STEAM Kits can be returned to any of our branch locations. Please
bring the STEAM Kit to the circulation desk. Do not leave in the book return dropbox.

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your STEAM Kit,
please contact your local branch or email us at info@cbrl.ca.

Explore More Steam Kits to Borrow

]]> Makey-Makey https://cbrl.ca/makey-makey/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:57:30 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=16965 Read More »Makey-Makey]]> About Makey Makey
Makey Makey electronic circuit board kit

Recommended age: 8+ years old

Requires: computer or laptop (not included)

Makey Makey is an invention tool that allows you to connect your computer to everyday objects and use them in place of your keyboard and mouse! No software to install. Works with Mac, PC, and Chromebooks.

Makey Makey can be requested through the SamePage Catalogue.

Once available it can be borrowed for 3 weeks.

Request Makey Makey

Kit Contents

Items in your kit are numbered as follows:

  1. Instruction booklet
  2. Circuit board
  3. Red USB cable
  4. Alligator clips (x7)
  5. Jumper wires (x6)

Caution!

  • Keep circuit board and computer away from water.
  • Do not connect Makey Makey to a wall outlet or charger.
  • Only connect to a computer.

Getting Started

  • First, make sure all parts are included in your kit. Let your library branch know if anything is missing.
  • Open a text editor or word processor (such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs) on your computer.
  • Next, connect the circuit board to your computer using the red USB cable.
  • Using an alligator clip, connect one end to “earth” on the circuit board, and hold the other end with your hand.
  • Touch the “space” button on the circuit board with your other hand. A green light will turn on to indicate you’ve made a connection. Your computer should respond by making a space as if you touched the space bar on your keyboard.
  • Now, using another alligator clip, connect one end to the “space” button on the circuit board and the other end to an object. NOTE: some objects will work better than others. Things like fruit and metallic objects work great.
  • Now that you’ve made a connection with the circuit board, check out the Makey Makey apps linked below, the user manual, or begin experimenting and create your own invention!

Troubleshooting

If you are having issues with Makey Makey or have further questions,
please visit these resources:

Additional Resources

Suggested Reading

Find these and more on samepagecbrl.bibliocommons.com

FEEDBACK

We’d love to hear from you! Please provide us with your feedback by filling out the feedback form included in your kit, or by filling in our online survey.

Give Feedback

STEAM Kits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is STEAM?

STEAM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. It is an approach to learning that uses these subjects as a guide to problem-solving, inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

What are STEAM Kits?

STEAM Kits contain hands-on activities that support STEAM-based
learning.

How do I check out a STEAM Kit?

For how long can I borrow a STEAM Kit?

STEAM Kits can be checked out online through the Cape Breton
Regional Library website (www.cbrl.ca), or in person at any of our
branch locations.

STEAM Kits can be borrowed for up to 3 weeks.

How do I return a STEAM kit?

STEAM Kits can be returned to any of our branch locations. Please
bring the STEAM Kit to the circulation desk. Do not leave in the book return dropbox.

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your STEAM Kit,
please contact your local branch or email us at info@cbrl.ca.

Explore More Steam Kits to Borrow

]]> Cubetto – Deep Space https://cbrl.ca/cubetto-deep-space/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 13:48:45 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=16930
Cubetto wooden robot on deep space themed adventure mat

Cubetto: Deep Space Adventure Pack

Recommended age: 3 to 6 years old

Cubetto is a friendly wooden robot designed to teach about programming and coding through hands-on play. Cubetto teaches kids to use their problem-solving, logical reasoning, and teamwork skills to complete fun-filled adventures.

Cubetto can be requested through the SamePage Catalogue.

When available the kit can be borrowed for 3 weeks.

Request Cubetto

Kit Contents:

Items in your Cubetto kit are numbered as follows:

  1. Interface board/Control panel
  2. Cubetto robot
  3. 22 Command blocks (in canvas bag)
  4. Cubetto’s First Day Adventure Book
  5. Instruction Booklet
  6. Deep Space Adventure Pack
  7. World map
  8. Cubetto’s Leaves Earth Adventure Book
  9. Deep Space map

If any parts are missing, please notify your library branch

Caution!

  • Choking hazard: contains small parts. Adult supervision required.
  • Only use indoors.
  • Do not use on carpet or uneven surfaces as Cubetto may become stuck.
  • Always use three of the same type of batteries (ie. alkaline, carbon-zinc, or rechargeable) in both Cubetto and the interface board.

How to Sync Cubetto & the Interface Board

  • Turn over the interface board and the Cubetto robot, find the power switch, and slide it to the ON position. Cubetto will beep and blue lights on the interface board will flash three times.
  • Place Cubetto on the floor.Place a green command block in the first slot after the arrow on the interface board. A blue light will appear under the command block if placed correctly.
  • Press the round blue button.
  • If Cubetto does not move forward, turn both the interface board and Cubetto off and repeat steps 1 to 4.

How to Program Cubetto

  • Lay out the map on a large smooth surface like the floor.
  • Place Cubetto on the compass symbol on the map, facing the direction that you want him to move.
  • Place the command blocks in the slots on the interface board, starting at the arrow. A blue light will appear underneath the slot if placed correctly.
  • Command blocks must be placed in sequence – follow the curve!
  • Press the round blue button to watch Cubetto carry out your instructions.

Troubleshooting

If you are having issues with Cubetto or have further questions, please visit these resources:

Additional Resources

  • “How to Code a Sandcastle” by Josh Funk
  • “My First Coding Book” by Kiki Prottsman
  • “Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding” by Linda Liukas
Find these books and more in the SamePage Catalogue

FEEDBACK

We’d love to hear from you! Please provide us with your feedback by filling out the feedback form included in your kit, or by filling in our online survey.

Give Feedback

STEAM Kits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is STEAM?

STEAM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. It is an approach to learning that uses these subjects as a guide to problem-solving, inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

What are STEAM Kits?

STEAM Kits contain hands-on activities that support STEAM-based
learning.

How do I check out a STEAM Kit?

For how long can I borrow a STEAM Kit?

STEAM Kits can be checked out online through the Cape Breton
Regional Library website (www.cbrl.ca), or in person at any of our
branch locations.

STEAM Kits can be borrowed for up to 3 weeks.

How do I return a STEAM kit?

STEAM Kits can be returned to any of our branch locations. Please
bring the STEAM Kit to the circulation desk. Do not leave in the book return dropbox.

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your STEAM Kit,
please contact your local branch or email us at info@cbrl.ca.

Explore More Steam Kits to Borrow

]]> Cubetto-Ancient Egypt https://cbrl.ca/cubetto-ancient-egypt/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 13:20:41 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=16909
Cubetto wooden robot on Ancient egypt adventure map

Cubetto: Included Ancient Egypt Adventure Pack

Recommended age: 3 to 6 years old

Cubetto is a friendly wooden robot designed to teach about programming and coding through hands-on play. Cubetto teaches kids to use their problem-solving, logical reasoning, and teamwork skills to complete fun-filled adventures.

Cubetto can be requested through the SamePage Catalogue.

When available the kit can be borrowed for 3 weeks.

Request Cubetto

Kit Contents:

Items in your kit are numbered as follows:

  1. Interface board/Control panel
  2. Cubetto robot
  3. 22 Command blocks (in canvas bag)
  4. Cubetto’s First Day Adventure Book
  5. Instruction Booklet
  6. Ancient Egypt Adventure Pack
  7. World map
  8. Cubetto’s Class Trip Adventure Book
  9. Ancient Egypt map

If any parts are missing, please notify your library branch

Caution!

  • Choking hazard: contains small parts. Adult supervision required.
  • Only use indoors.
  • Do not use on carpet or uneven surfaces as Cubetto may become stuck.
  • Always use three of the same type of batteries (ie. alkaline, carbon-zinc, or rechargeable) in both Cubetto and the interface board.

How to Sync Cubetto & the Interface Board

  • Turn over the interface board and the Cubetto robot, find the power switch, and slide it to the ON position. Cubetto will beep and blue lights on the interface board will flash three times.
  • Place Cubetto on the floor.Place a green command block in the first slot after the arrow on the interface board. A blue light will appear under the command block if placed correctly.
  • Press the round blue button.
  • If Cubetto does not move forward, turn both the interface board and Cubetto off and repeat steps 1 to 4.

How to Program Cubetto

  • Lay out the map on a large smooth surface like the floor.
  • Place Cubetto on the compass symbol on the map, facing the direction that you want him to move.
  • Place the command blocks in the slots on the interface board, starting at the arrow. A blue light will appear underneath the slot if placed correctly.
  • Command blocks must be placed in sequence – follow the curve!
  • Press the round blue button to watch Cubetto carry out your instructions.

Troubleshooting

If you are having issues with Cubetto or have further questions, please visit these resources:

Additional Resources

  • “How to Code a Sandcastle” by Josh Funk
  • “My First Coding Book” by Kiki Prottsman
  • “Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding” by Linda Liukas
Find these books in the SamePage Catalogue

FEEDBACK

We’d love to hear from you! Please provide us with your feedback by filling out the feedback form included in your kit, or by filling in our online survey.

Give Feedback

STEAM Kits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is STEAM?

STEAM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. It is an approach to learning that uses these subjects as a guide to problem-solving, inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

What are STEAM Kits?

STEAM Kits contain hands-on activities that support STEAM-based
learning.

How do I check out a STEAM Kit?

For how long can I borrow a STEAM Kit?

STEAM Kits can be checked out online through the Cape Breton
Regional Library website (www.cbrl.ca), or in person at any of our
branch locations.

STEAM Kits can be borrowed for up to 3 weeks.

How do I return a STEAM kit?

STEAM Kits can be returned to any of our branch locations. Please
bring the STEAM Kit to the circulation desk. Do not leave in the book return dropbox.

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your STEAM Kit,
please contact your local branch or email us at info@cbrl.ca.

Explore More Steam Kits to Borrow

]]> Walking Poles https://cbrl.ca/walking-poles/ Mon, 07 Feb 2022 18:17:53 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=13345 Read More »Walking Poles]]> CBRL has Nordic Walking Poles available to borrow all year long. Poles come with removable rubber feet. Leave the rubber feet on for dirt and pavement, remove the rubber feet and use the steel tip for ice and snow. Poles are adjustable and suitable for anyone height 4’2″ to 6’2″

Borrow a Walking Pole

]]> Pedometers https://cbrl.ca/pedometers/ Wed, 26 Jan 2022 18:47:29 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=13197 Read More »Pedometers]]> Moving more and walking more can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and other illnesses. You don’t need a Fitbit or smart watch to track your activity, a simple pedometer can help you set goals and track your daily steps.

Start by using the pedometer to track your average daily steps before you set a goal. Try increasing your step goal gradually. If you started with 3000 steps a day, add in a few 10-15 minute walks and you will quickly see your steps increase. Wear the pedometer throughout the day, so that no step is uncounted!

Borrow a pedometer

]]> Cross Country Skis https://cbrl.ca/cross-country-skis/ Wed, 26 Jan 2022 18:24:08 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=13192 Read More »Cross Country Skis]]> Cross Country (Nordic) skis, boots and poles are available at Baddeck Library through the Victoria County Active Gear Loan Program.

Ski sets include waxless skis, boots, and poles available in children’s to adult sizes.

The smallest boots are toddler size 11 (Euro size 28).

The largest boots are Men’s size 12.5 (Euro size 47)

Skis can be borrowed for one week and must be picked up returned to Baddeck Library during open hours. Our skis are popular and stock is limited.

Please phone Baddeck Library, 902-295-2055, for more information.

Where to Ski

Baddeck Nordic Ski Club

Cape Breton Nordic

  • Cape Breton Nordic grooms trails and rents skis out of its clubhouse at Seaview Golf Course in North Sydney. Find Cape Breton Nordic on Facebook.

]]> Snowshoes https://cbrl.ca/snowshoes/ Mon, 27 Dec 2021 14:31:18 +0000 http://cbrl.ca/?p=10000 Read More »Snowshoes]]> Did you know you can borrow snowshoes from the library?

Snowshoeing is a great winter activity you can do almost anywhere. Our snowshoes work great on or off-trail.

Snowshoe FAQ

Where can I borrow snowshoes from?


Snowshoes are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis at the following library branches:

  • McConnell Library – Sydney. 902-562-3161
  • Baddeck Library.  902-295-2055
  • Glace Bay Library 902-849-8657
  • North Sydney Library 902-794-3272
  • New Waterford Library 902-862-2892
  • Victoria North Regional Library – Ingonish.  902-285-2544

Can I reserve snowshoes in advance?

Our snowshoes are available on a first-come first-served basis. We do not take reservations in advance. Drop-by any of the listed libraries or phone the branch to set aside a pair of snowshoes for same day pick-up. 

What sizes are available?

Multiple sizes from children’s through to adult are available, from size 17 (for individuals up to 80 pounds) to size 24 (for individuals up to 250 pounds).

How many snowshoes can I borrow?

Our snowshoe loan program is set-up for personal and family use. You may borrow a maximum of 3 pairs of snowshoes can be borrowed on one library card. Parents/guardians may borrow for themselves and their children. Adults should borrow snowshoes on their own library card and each adult borrower will have to sign a copy of our Sports Equipment Loan Agreement.

How long can I borrow the snowshoes for?

Once picked-up you can use the snowshoes for one week, but early returns are encouraged! All snowshoes and poles should be returned to the library branch you borrowed them from. All snowshoes must be returned directly to library staff during library open hours.

Can I renew snowshoes?

No. There are no renewals for snowshoes.

Can I borrow poles with the snowshoes?

A pair of trekking poles are available to borrow along with each set of snowshoes.

Does the library have other Winter equipment to borrow?

  • Cross Country Skis, (Baddeck Library only)
  • Ice Traction Cleats (Baddeck Library only)
  • Walking Poles.

]]> Nature Backpacks https://cbrl.ca/naturebackpacks/ Wed, 09 Jun 2021 15:53:15 +0000 http://cbrl.ca/?page_id=6843 Read More »Nature Backpacks]]> CBRL’s Nature Backpacks aim to inspire families and individuals to experience nature through hands-on exploration.  Each kit contains various books, field guides and gadgets to help develop new skills, such as using binoculars for birdwatching, learning to draw from nature and learning how to identify wild plants and animals. The backpacks can be borrowed for free with a library card and many activities can be done in the backyard, local park or walking trail making them accessible to everyone in our community.

Nature Backpacks can be borrowed from any library branch.  There are 7 different themes to choose from.

Borrow a Nature Backpack

Funding and support for Nature Backpacks was generously provided by Nova Scotia Communities, Culture & Heritage and CBRM Recreation.

CBRM Recreation

Themes:

Winter

  • Discover the science of snow, learn about animals in the winter, or learn all about Winter hiking! Contains a snow-brick maker, handheld microscope and field guides and picture books.
Winter Nature Backpack

Birdwatching

  • Learn about birds in your backyard, the forest or the beach.  Contains binoculars, bird field guides, and books about birds for kids and adults.
Birdwatching Backpack showing contents of the kit: Formac Field Guide to Nova Scotia Birds; Birdwatching kit instructions; community nature journal; 3 brochures: eastern coastal birds, Walking Trails and Outdoor Spaces of CBRM, and Eastern backyard birds; Binoculars; Bird Watching For Kids Book.
Birdwatching Nature Backpack

At the Beach

  • Discover more at the beach this year with activities and books to learn about seashore life.  Also contains beach bucket and shovels, a sandproof beach blanket and guide to the Beaches of Cape Breton.

In the Forest

  • Discover new hiking trails, learn how to identify animal tracks and learn how to respect the life of the forest and stay safe around wild animals.
Forest Nature Backpack Kit with contents on display: Hiking Trails of Cape Breton book; Forest Nature Backpack instructions; handheld magnifying glass; community nature journal; trees of Eastern canada brochure; Walking Trails and Outdoor Spaces of CBRM brochure; Animal Signatures book; Woodland and Forest children's book.
Forest Nature Backpack

Wildcrafting

  • Learn how to make a nature journal, practice pressing flowers and learn about edible wild plants! Lots of activities and recipes are included.

Night Sky

  • Learn how to use binoculars to view the night sky.  Discover more about the phases of the moon and the constellations.  Includes binoculars for star gazing.
Night Sky Nature Backpack with contents on display: Many Moons children's book; community nature journal; Night Sky nature backpack instructions; National Geographic Pocket Guide to the Night Sky of North America book; night viewing flashlight; Night Sky binoculars; 50 Things to see with a telescope young stargazer's guide book.
Night Sky Nature Backpack

Insects

Insects are everywhere around us, learn more about the fascinating world of insects with activities, insect observation tank and in depth field guides

Insects Nature backpack with contents on display: Secret Lives of Backyard bugs book; community nature journal; insects nature backpack instructions; Smithsonian Bug Hunter children's book; butterfly net; insect observation tank; Nature Wildlife Federation Field Guide to Insects book.
Insects Nature Backpack
Borrow a Nature Backpack
]]> Garmin GPS units https://cbrl.ca/explore-cape-breton-with-garmin-gps-units/ Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:21:14 +0000 https://cbrl.ca/?p=10657 Read More »Garmin GPS units]]>

These GPS units are good companions for books such as Hiking Trails of Cape Breton or Waterfalls of Nova Scotia. Both of these books use GPS coordinates to indicate locations of trail heads and other interesting landmarks. Geocachers may also find these GPS units to be helpful.

You can find these GPS Units in the library catalogue and place a hold on one to borrow.

For more information on how to use the Garmin ExTrex Legend refer to the User manual that is loaned out with the kit . There are also some videos on YouTube (such as the one posted below), which demonstrate how to enter GPS coordinates on these devices.

Cape Breton Regional Library’s Nature Backpacks are also available to borrow – the backpacks have books and suggested activities for exploring nature with your family.

]]> Radon Detectors https://cbrl.ca/radon-detectors/ Wed, 05 Sep 2018 16:53:01 +0000 http://cbrl.ca/?page_id=5145 Read More »Radon Detectors]]> Cape Breton Regional Library > Library of Things > Home Assessment Equipment > Radon Detectors

Radon detector kits are available to borrow from the library. All you need is your library card!

Library members can now borrow radon detector kits from their local public library through the support of the Lung Association of Nova Scotia.  Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can seep into your home through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations. When radon is released from the ground into the outdoor air, it gets diluted to low concentrations and is not a concern. However, in enclosed spaces, like houses, it can sometimes accumulate to high levels. Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer, and it is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada. It is invisible, odourless, and tasteless, so the only way to confirm the level of radon in your home is through testing.

The library has several kits available to borrow as part of a pilot project. Visit our online catalogue or ask at your local library to place a hold on one. The kits can be borrowed for a six week loan period.

For more information on radon and what you can do if your test results indicate high levels of radon in your home, please visit the following websites:

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