Ypsilanti District Library: Library of Things
location_onYpsilanti, Michigan
infoAbout Ypsilanti District Library: Library of Things
Ypsilanti District Library in Ypsilanti, Michigan lends tools and garden equipment through its Library of Things. The library says, "Find games, tools, tech, kitchen supplies, office materials, and more in our Library of Things collection." It is a public library collection: you borrow from it with a library card, the same way you borrow a book. This page uses the Whittaker Road library at 5577 Whittaker Road as its address; Things can be checked out at the checkout desk of any YDL location.
What You Can Borrow
The Tools list includes a cordless drill, rotary hammer drill, Dremel 8220 rotary tool, Craftsman 18 gauge brad nailer, stud finder, laser level kit, hole saw kit, heat gun, staple gun, 3 lb and 8 lb sledgehammers, fence post driver and automotive diagnostic code reader, among others. The Garden list includes a bypass pruner, bypass lopper, hedge shears, 10in blade folding saw, broad fork cultivator and tiller, post hole digger, garden hoe, short garden shovel and Uprooter weed wrench.
Borrowing
A Thing may be borrowed for three weeks and renewed up to two times unless someone has a hold. You may have three Things at a time and can reserve them through the online catalog or app, in person, or by phone. Check out and return at a YDL checkout desk, not self-check or the book drop.
Membership
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat power tools can I borrow?
The list includes a cordless drill, rotary hammer drill, Dremel rotary tool, brad nailer and heat gun.
help_outlineWhat garden tools are available?
Items such as a bypass pruner, bypass lopper, hedge shears, 10in blade folding saw and broad fork cultivator and tiller.
help_outlineHow long can I keep a Thing?
Three weeks, with up to two renewals if no one has a hold.
help_outlineCan I reserve an item?
Yes, through the online catalog or app, in person, or by phone.
help_outlineWho can borrow power tools?
Tier 2 items are limited to YDL cardholders 18 and older who sign a one-time waiver.
help_outlineWhere do I return items?
To any YDL checkout desk, not the book drop.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Ypsilanti 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 | 58 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| Wayne County Public Library: Library of Things | Wooster, OH | 130 mi | — | Wayne County patrons with a library card and PIN |
| Traverse Area District Library: East Bay Branch Tool Library | Traverse City, MI | 199 mi | — | Library card |
| Garden Resource Center: Tool Library & Supply Depot (GRC) | Pittsburgh, PA | 227 mi | — | From $30 |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 297 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
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