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Tool Lending Library

Borrow tools for free!

We now offer tool lending to customers at 6 of our libraries: Compton, Lancaster, Malibu, Norwalk, Rosemead, and San Fernando. Our tool lending program provides the community opportunities to check out tools and maker items at no cost. The inventory includes hammers, wrenches, electrical cords, cookware, sewing machines, gardening tools, power tools, and much more.

Tool Catalog

Due to space availability, not all libraries have the same set of tools. Please review the catalog to determine if the tool is in the library collection and call in advance of visiting. Each library has a printed catalog to browse in the library.

LA County Library cardholders over the age of 18 are eligible to borrow tools from the Tool Lending Library. Loan period for tools is seven (7) days and no more than six (6) tools can be checked out at one time, with a maximum of two (2) from the following list: drill driver, sanders, pressure washer, sewing machine, Cricut machine. Tools will not be sent to other libraries for pick up, and must be returned in-person to owning library. View the complete Tool Lending Library Borrower Agreement here.

What libraries have a Tool Lending Library?

LA County Library has a Tool Lending Library at the following library locations: Compton Library, Lancaster Library, Malibu library, Norwalk Library, Rosemead Library, and San Fernando Library.

Do you accept donations of tools?

Thank you for thinking of the library, but we are not accepting any donations of tools at this time.

How long can I borrow the tool?

Tools can be checked out for 7 days. Tools cannot be renewed.

Can a tool be sent to my closest library for pick up?

No. Tools must be borrowed and returned to owning Tool Lending Library location and cannot be sent to other library locations.

Do the five Tool Lending Library sites have the same tools?

No, due to space availability, not all libraries have the same set of tools. Please review the catalog to determine if the tool is in the library collection and call in advance of visiting. Each library has a printed catalog to browse in the library.

What are the requirements for borrowing tools?

• Adult cardholder (18+ age) in good standing.
• Borrowers must sign the Liability Waiver and Indemnification Form.
• Only the person borrowing the tool shall use the tool.

How many tools can be checked out at a time?

Six (6) tools can be checked out at one time, with a maximum of two (2) from the following list: drill driver, sanders, pressure washer, sewing machine, Cricut machine.

How do I return my tools?

Tools must be returned in-person to the lending library. Return the tools to a staff member. Do not return in the book drop.

Will staff show me how to use the tools?

The borrower acknowledges that they are capable of using the tool in a safe and proper manner. Library will include any instruction manuals. Library staff are unable to provide assistance with using the tools beyond the provided manufacturer’s instructions.

Who provides the supplies needed to use the tools?

Only the tool is provided by the library. Borrower needs to supply all expendable materials such as staples for the staple gun, glue sticks for the hot glue gun, materials and mats for the Cricut machine, sandpaper for the sander, thread & notions for the sewing machine, and garden hose for the power washer. Please review notes in the catalog and inquire at the library.

Why don’t you have a particular tool in the collection?

Due to cost, space, and safety concerns, LA County Library is unable to have all desired tools in the Tool Lending Library. A selection of hand tools, creative tools, and repair tools are available.

This program is supported by the City of Malibu and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.

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