Wilmette Public Library: Library of Things
location_onWilmette, Illinois
infoAbout Wilmette Public Library: Library of Things
The Library of Things at Wilmette Public Library, 1242 Wilmette Avenue in Wilmette, Illinois, is a public library collection borrowed with a library card. The library introduces it as "Wilmette Public Library's collection of technology, tools, and toys!"
Borrowing
The collection is for Wilmette library cardholders. Items are picked up at the circulation desk and check out for two weeks. Each item on the page links to the library's catalog to check it out.
What You Can Borrow
The Tools filter includes a tool kit set ("A set of 50 of the most common hand tools for basic repairs and projects"), a stud finder, a laser measure and an air compressor for inflating tires, mattresses and sports equipment. The wider collection covers accessibility devices, chargers, digitization gear, media players, STEM kits, travel items, board games and jigsaw puzzles.
Hours
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWho can borrow from Wilmette's Library of Things?
Wilmette library cardholders.
help_outlineHow long is the loan?
Two weeks. Pick items up at the circulation desk.
help_outlineWhat tools are available?
A 50-piece hand tool kit, a stud finder, a laser measure and an air compressor.
help_outlineWhere is the library?
1242 Wilmette Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091.
help_outlineWhen is it open?
Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 12-5pm.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Wilmette 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 171 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| Traverse Area District Library: East Bay Branch Tool Library | Traverse City, MI | 212 mi | — | Library card |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 285 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| Carbondale Tool Library | Carbondale, IL | 311 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Wayne County Public Library: Library of Things | Wooster, OH | 311 mi | — | Wayne County patrons with a library card and PIN |
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