Hamden Public Library: Library of Things
location_onHamden, Connecticut
infoAbout Hamden Public Library: Library of Things
The Library of Things at Hamden Public Library is a public library collection borrowed with a library card. The library describes it as non-traditional materials "including gadgets, tools, games, kits, electronics, and more — all available to check out for free with a library card." The tool items are held at Miller Memorial Library, 2901 Dixwell Avenue in Hamden, Connecticut.
What You Can Borrow
At Miller, the collection includes a pressure washer (with a wand, 25 foot hose and five nozzles; the library says it is "ideal for deep cleaning driveways, decks, fences, outdoor furniture, and vehicles"), a laser level with integrated stud sensor, a Bosch laser measure, a light bulb changer kit, a portable air compressor, a car battery charger and a diagnostic car code reader. Other items cover home, health and wellness, crafts, games and audio-visual gear. Each item page has a "Check availability" link to the catalog.
Hours
Miller Memorial Library: Monday 9:30am-5pm, Tuesday 9:30am-8pm, Wednesday 12-5pm, Thursday through Saturday 9:30am-5pm, closed Sunday.
Contact
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhich Hamden library holds the tools?
Miller Memorial Library, 2901 Dixwell Ave, Hamden, CT 06518.
help_outlineWhat tools can I borrow?
A pressure washer, a laser level with stud sensor, a Bosch laser measure, a light bulb changer kit, a portable air compressor, a car battery charger and a diagnostic car code reader.
help_outlineDoes it cost anything?
No. The library says Library of Things items are free to check out with a library card.
help_outlineHow do I see if an item is in?
Each item page on the library's site has a 'Check availability' link to the catalog.
help_outlineWhen is Miller Memorial Library open?
Monday 9:30am-5pm, Tuesday 9:30am-8pm, Wednesday 12-5pm, Thursday-Saturday 9:30am-5pm, closed Sunday.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Hamden Public Library: Library of Things 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
card_membershipMembership & Pricing
Annual membership gives you access to the full tool inventory for borrowing.
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ridgewood Public Library: Library of Things | Ridgewood, NJ | 69 mi | — | Ridgewood Public Library or BCCLS member in good standing |
| Maplewood Library: Library of Things | Maplewood, NJ | 84 mi | — | Valid adult resident Maplewood Library card |
| Summit Free Public Library: Library of Things | Summit, NJ | 89 mi | — | Available to Summit residents 17 and over, paid members, and those employed in Summit |
| Tool Library Albany | Albany, NY | 99 mi | star5.0 | 20 |
| Morse Institute Library: Library of Things | Natick, MA | 102 mi | — | Minuteman patrons with no outstanding fines above $100 |
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