Sacramento Public Library: Library of Things
location_onSacramento, California
infoAbout Sacramento Public Library: Library of Things
The Library of Things is a lending collection run by Sacramento Public Library. This listing is placed at the Arcade Library, 2443 Marconi Avenue in Sacramento, one of the branches where items are picked up. In the library's words: "Browse the Library of Things collections and reserve an item with your library card. Discover items no one expects to find at a library, like a GoPro or home care and yard tools. You can even get creative with musical instruments and photography equipment."
Where to Pick Up
Reserved items are picked up at the Arcade, Fair Oaks or Valley Hi-North Laguna Library during open hours, once you get a notice that your item is ready. The Walnut Grove Library has its own collection: stop by and see what is available.
Borrowing
Anyone who has a library card (owing less than $5 in fees) and is over 18 can check out a Thing. You can place up to three reservations at a time, and there is a two-item checkout limit. Items are borrowed for 2 weeks and cannot be renewed. Return each item to the same location you picked it up from, during open hours.
What You Can Borrow
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWho can borrow from the Library of Things?
Anyone who has a Sacramento Public Library card (owing less than $5 in fees) and is over 18 years old.
help_outlineWhere do I pick up items?
At the Arcade, Fair Oaks or Valley Hi-North Laguna Library once you get a pickup notice. Walnut Grove Library's collection is walk-in.
help_outlineHow long can I keep an item?
2 weeks. Library of Things items cannot be renewed.
help_outlineHow many items can I have?
Up to three reservations at a time, and a two-item checkout limit.
help_outlineDoes it lend tools?
Yes. The library lists home care and yard tools in the collection.
help_outlineWhere do I return an item?
To the same location you picked it up from, during open hours.
help_outlineWhen is Arcade Library open?
Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Sacramento 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond Tool Library | Richmond, CA | 69 mi | star4.9 | Free |
| Oakland Public Library: Oakland Tool Lending Library | Oakland, CA | 71 mi | star4.6 | Free |
| Fix Way Tool Library & Common Space | Ventura, CA | 321 mi | — | Pay what you can (suggested $100/year) |
| Los Angeles Tool Library | Los Angeles, CA | 359 mi | star5.0 | Free |
| Central Oregon Tool Library | Bend, OR | 377 mi | star5.0 | Sliding scale, suggested minimum $1 per $1,000 annual income (e.g., $50/year for $50,000 income), no one turned away for inability to pay. |
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