Vespasian Warner Public Library: Library of Things
location_onClinton, Illinois
infoAbout Vespasian Warner Public Library: Library of Things
The Library of Things is a public library collection at the Vespasian Warner Public Library, 310 N. Quincy Street in Clinton, Illinois, borrowed with a library card. The library says it "takes DIY to the next level with a collection of items no one expects to find at the Library! Check out technology, instruments, yard games, tools, & so much more without the price tag!" Grant funding from the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation added new educational items.
What You Can Borrow
The tools listed include a Black & Decker cordless drill, a 38-piece ratchet tool set, a 5-piece putty knife set, and a laser level and stud finder kit. The collection also holds technology such as streaming sticks, yard and floor games, binoculars, a telescope, a metal detector and music items. Items are requested through the library.
Borrowing
The library's page does not list loan periods or limits for the Library of Things; ask staff when you request an item.
Hours
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat tools does the Vespasian Warner Library of Things have?
A Black & Decker cordless drill, a 38-piece ratchet tool set, a 5-piece putty knife set, and a laser level and stud finder kit.
help_outlineWhere is it?
At the Vespasian Warner Public Library, 310 N. Quincy St., Clinton, IL 61727.
help_outlineWhen is the library open?
Monday-Thursday 9am-7pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-1pm. Closed Sundays.
help_outlineWhat else is in the Library of Things?
Technology like streaming sticks, yard and floor games, binoculars, a telescope, a metal detector and music items.
help_outlineHow do I contact the library?
Call 217-935-5174 or email library@vwarner.org.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Vespasian Warner 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
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbondale Tool Library | Carbondale, IL | 168 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 218 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 293 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| Traverse Area District Library: East Bay Branch Tool Library | Traverse City, MI | 360 mi | — | Library card |
| Wayne County Public Library: Library of Things | Wooster, OH | 371 mi | — | Wayne County patrons with a library card and PIN |
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