Portage District Library: Library of Things
location_onPortage, Michigan
infoAbout Portage District Library: Library of Things
Portage District Library at 300 Library Lane in Portage, Michigan lends tools through its Library of Things. The library invites patrons to "Explore a diverse collection of tools, games, instruments, kits, and much more, available for check-out today." It is a public library collection: you borrow from it with a library card, the same way you borrow a book.
What You Can Borrow
The catalog's Library of Things tools search lists a stud finder with level, Kensun air compressor, BlueDriver pro scan tool, digital multimeter electrical test kit and folding cart, along with a radon detector, metal detectors and a portable battery.
Membership
High-value items and those requiring special handling, such as certain tools and equipment, require patrons to be 18 or older and sign a waiver, with valid ID, at checkout. Temporary and reciprocal members cannot borrow from the Library of Things. The limit is two Tier 1 youth items and two Tier 2 adult items per membership.
Hours
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat tools does Portage District Library lend?
Its catalog lists a stud finder with level, Kensun air compressor, BlueDriver pro scan tool and digital multimeter electrical test kit.
help_outlineDo I need to be 18?
Yes for certain tools and equipment, which also need a signed waiver and valid ID.
help_outlineCan reciprocal or temporary members borrow?
No. They cannot borrow from the Library of Things.
help_outlineHow many items can I have?
Two Tier 1 youth items and two Tier 2 adult items per membership.
help_outlineIs the library open Sundays?
Sunday 1-5pm, except from the Sunday before Memorial Day until after Labor Day.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Portage District 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 68 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| Traverse Area District Library: East Bay Branch Tool Library | Traverse City, MI | 174 mi | — | Library card |
| Wayne County Public Library: Library of Things | Wooster, OH | 212 mi | — | Wayne County patrons with a library card and PIN |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 275 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| Garden Resource Center: Tool Library & Supply Depot (GRC) | Pittsburgh, PA | 318 mi | — | From $30 |
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