Arlington Public Library: DIY Collection
location_onArlington, Virginia
infoAbout Arlington Public Library: DIY Collection
The DIY Collection is part of Arlington Public Library's Library of Things in Arlington, Virginia. It is a public library collection, borrowed with an Arlington Public Library card. The library describes it this way: "Encouraging sustainability through shared resources. Borrow before you buy! Hand tools to inspire and help you develop new skills."
What You Can Borrow
The library says the collection "encompasses both traditional and non-traditional hand tools." It names building tools (screwdrivers, a level and a stud finder), bike repair tools (a floor pump and a tire pressure gauge), outdoor equipment (binoculars, a solar power charger and a camping lantern) and energy conservation tools (thermal cameras). The full list is in the library catalog under the DIY collection.
Borrowing
Items check out for 14 days and can be renewed three times if no one else has a hold. Holds are placed in the library catalog, and items on hold can be picked up at any Arlington Public Library location.
Returns
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat tools are in Arlington Public Library's DIY Collection?
Hand tools. The library names screwdrivers, a level and a stud finder, plus bike repair tools such as a floor pump and tire pressure gauge, and thermal cameras for energy conservation.
help_outlineHow long can I borrow a DIY Collection item?
14 days, renewable three times if no one else has placed a hold.
help_outlineWhere can I pick up a DIY Collection item?
Place a hold in the library catalog; items on hold can be picked up at any Arlington Public Library location.
help_outlineCan I return DIY items in the book drop?
No. Return them to the Service Desk at any library location and report any damage or missing pieces to staff.
help_outlineDoes the DIY Collection include power tools?
The library describes the DIY Collection as traditional and non-traditional hand tools.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Arlington Public Library: DIY Collection doesn't lend — buy them once and finish the job. Every item below ships from Amazon.
Tool libraries lend the tools — but you bring your own PPE. These are the basics worth keeping on a shelf.
ANSI-Rated Safety Glasses
Anti-fog, scratch-resistant. The pair you'll actually wear.
Work Gloves (Cut-Resistant)
Level-5 cut resistance handles utility blades and rough lumber.
Ear Protection (NRR 28+)
Circular saws and routers exceed 100 dB. NRR 28+ is the safe floor.
N95 Dust Masks (10-pack)
Critical for sanding, sawing MDF, or drywall work.
Tool libraries don't lend the stuff that gets used up. Buy these once, finish your project.
Sandpaper Variety Pack
60 to 400 grit covers most rough-to-finish work.
Drill Bit Set (Titanium)
Goes through wood, plastic, and most metals. Lasts longer than HSS.
Utility Knife Blades (100-pack)
Standard-size, fit most retractable knives. Cheaper in bulk.
Wood Screws Variety Box
Mixed lengths and gauges — saves a hardware-store trip mid-project.
Cheap, used constantly, not worth a library trip. Build your own small kit with these.
25-ft Tape Measure
Magnetic hook, standout reach. The one tool you'll grab daily.
Combination Screwdriver Set
Magnetic tips. Phillips + flathead in the sizes you'll actually use.
Stud Finder (Magnetic + Electronic)
Multi-mode finders catch both magnetic fasteners and wood/metal studs.
9-in-1 Multi-Bit Driver
Replaces a kit of screwdrivers and nut drivers in one handle.
Books and plans that show you how to actually use the tools you're borrowing.
Reader's Digest Complete DIY Manual
Plumbing, electrical, carpentry, drywall — the household bible.
The Woodworker's Pocket Book
Joints, wood species, finishes — fits in a tool bag.
Black & Decker Wiring Guide
Code-current, illustrated, written for homeowners not electricians.
Pencil & Carpenter Marker Set
Mechanical carpenter pencils + deep-hole markers — endless small wins.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are editorially independent — picks based on what tool-library users typically need alongside borrowed tools.
location_onContact & Location
dashboardFeatures & Categories
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC Tool Library | Washington, DC | 6 mi | star5.0 | Free for DC residents |
| Harrisburg Tool Library | Harrisburg, PA | 96 mi | star5.0 | 0 |
| West Philly Tool Library | Philadelphia, PA | 125 mi | star4.7 | $20/year (sliding scale) |
| Garden Resource Center: Tool Library & Supply Depot (GRC) | Pittsburgh, PA | 185 mi | — | From $30 |
| Brooklyn Public Library - Greenpoint Branch | Brooklyn, NY | 210 mi | star3.9 | Free |
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