James Blackstone Memorial Library: Library of Things
location_onBranford, Connecticut
infoAbout James Blackstone Memorial Library: Library of Things
The Library of Things is a public library collection at the James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street in Branford, Connecticut, borrowed with a library card. The library says it "includes all kinds of non-traditional items for you to borrow, such as musical equipment, a cordless drill, metal detector, croquet set, sewing machines, and much more!"
What You Can Borrow
The library names a cordless drill, a metal detector, musical equipment, a croquet set and sewing machines. The full list is on the library's Browse Library of Things catalog page.
Borrowing
All Library of Things items can be borrowed for one week, up to two times per month. After you return an item, there is a 24-hour wait before you can borrow it again. You review and sign a Borrowers Agreement the first time you borrow a Thing. The collection was made possible through a gift from the Friends of the Blackstone Library.
Donations
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineCan I borrow a drill from the Blackstone Library?
Yes. The library lists a cordless drill in its Library of Things.
help_outlineHow long can I keep an item?
One week, and you can borrow up to two times per month.
help_outlineIs there a waiting period between loans?
Yes. After you return an item there is a 24-hour wait before the same patron can borrow it again.
help_outlineDo I need to sign anything?
Yes, a Borrowers Agreement the first time you borrow a Thing.
help_outlineCan I donate an item?
Email reference@blackstonelibrary.org.
help_outlineWho do I call with questions?
203-488-1441 x 321.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that James Blackstone Memorial 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 | 71 mi | — | Ridgewood Public Library or BCCLS member in good standing |
| Maplewood Library: Library of Things | Maplewood, NJ | 85 mi | — | Valid adult resident Maplewood Library card |
| Summit Free Public Library: Library of Things | Summit, NJ | 90 mi | — | Available to Summit residents 17 and over, paid members, and those employed in Summit |
| Morse Institute Library: Library of Things | Natick, MA | 103 mi | — | Minuteman patrons with no outstanding fines above $100 |
| Needham Free Public Library: Library of Things | Needham, MA | 107 mi | — | Valid Minuteman Library Network card in good standing |
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