Now here's a library loan that any ham could appreciate: Some rigs and other shack equipment - all in good repair and functioning - showcased so the folks in Prescott, Arizona, can see what all this radio fuss and excitement is about.

The borrower is the Prescott Public Library. The lender is the Yavapai Amateur Radio Club. Acting on a suggestion from club member Jim Zimmerman, N6KZ, the club offered to design a display area that is used by organizations on a temporary basis inside the library. The equipment has been on display through April, accompanied by details that explain what ham radio operators do -- and why.

Jim told Newsline in an email: [quote] "We are hoping to get some middle [and] high school student interest, as we have a nice club station, W7YRC, that we can show the kids how to operate." [endquote] He said a few youngsters have already asked about becoming hams and even the library staff has been intrigued.

If things go according to plan, the club may consider returning with another display next year. But for now, like library books themselves, the exhibit has an expiration date which, in this case, is the 30th of April. So for now, it's on borrowed time.