North Kohala Tool Library
location_onKapaau, Hawaii
infoAbout North Kohala Tool Library
North Kohala Tool Library (NKTL) is a tool library at 54-3842 Akoni Pule Highway in Kapaau, on the north tip of Hawaii Island. In its own words, "NKTL's mission is to build community capacity by providing its members with affordable and convenient access to tools and equipment as well as opportunities to learn new skills."
Who It Serves
NKTL has expanded beyond North Kohala and now welcomes members from Waikoloa, Waimea, Honoka'a and Kawaihae.
Borrowing
Members browse and reserve tools through NKTL's online inventory at nktoollibrary.myturn.com, then pick them up during open hours. NKTL does not publish its membership prices online; contact the library for current rates.
How It Runs
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere is North Kohala Tool Library?
54-3842 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau, HI 96755, on Hawaii Island.
help_outlineWhen is North Kohala Tool Library open?
Monday 4-6 PM, Thursday 8 AM-4 PM and Saturday 8 AM-4 PM.
help_outlineWho can join?
NKTL serves North Kohala and now also welcomes members from Waikoloa, Waimea, Honoka'a and Kawaihae.
help_outlineCan I see what tools are available?
Yes. NKTL's inventory is online at nktoollibrary.myturn.com, where members can browse and reserve tools.
help_outlineHow much is a membership?
NKTL does not publish membership prices online. Call (808) 213-7779 or email manager@nktl.org.
help_outlineCan I donate tools?
Yes. NKTL asks people to bring in working tools. Money donations are tax-deductible through Friends of the Future, NKTL's 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor.
help_outlineCan I volunteer?
Yes. NKTL is completely volunteer-run and looks for tool librarians, tool technicians and an education coordinator.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that North Kohala Tool Library 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HNL Tool Library at Re-use Hawaii | Honolulu, HI | 158 mi | — | $25/month, $50/3 months or $150/year (10% off for seniors, students and military) |
| Richmond Tool Library | Richmond, CA | 2343 mi | star4.9 | Free |
| Oakland Public Library: Oakland Tool Lending Library | Oakland, CA | 2344 mi | star4.6 | Free |
| Berkeley Tool Lending Library | Berkeley, CA | 2344 mi | star4.6 | Free |
| Fix Way Tool Library & Common Space | Ventura, CA | 2426 mi | — | Pay what you can (suggested $100/year) |
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