Oakland Public Library: Oakland Tool Lending Library

Tip: before you leave with borrowed tools, check your list of items and take pictures of what you borrow. An employee incorrectly recorded an item and I didn't bother to check. I was surprised when they said I had something that I never used 2 months later. I appreciate the staff, who are mostly helpful. I love this as a resource.
I wish they were at a more convenient location because this area is busy, so parking is almost nonexistent. Transporting heavy tools to the car can be a trek.

An amazing public service run by an even more amazing staff. Although technically not ‘free’ since everything is paid for by taxes - there is no additional cost whatsoever to borrow tools from this tool library. Just bring your Oakland Public Library card and a registered piece of mail with your address on it and you’ll be able to get setup. Most of their inventory is online at the OPL website, but the staff said to always call ahead for the most up to date inventory.

I was blown away by this awesome resource. It’s really good for renters and other people who maybe don’t have access to many tools. They were able to help us figure out what we needed and lent it to us. Friendly and handy people.

FYI only two patrons are allowed in the room at once, I think it is to prevent theft. They are strict about this so don’t expect to be able to enter as a group all at once.

I really love this place! It has saved me tons of money over the years. The only problem is that their renewal system is broken. They could have five identical tools on the shelf, but they won’t renew the one you have checked out, and rather require that you bring it in and trade it out for an identical item! Absurd. The decision tree on whether to renew an item should be very straightforward, and yet we’re asked to load up the tool, get in the car, take it in to the library, and exchange it. For. No. Reason.

Should I complain about something that’s free and a great community service? Well, yes, of course I should. Everything can get better.

This is such an amazing resource! The tools I've borrowed recently have all been great quality in great condition. And the folks that work there are very friendly and efficient. Thank you Oakland Public Library system!

Love the Lending Tool Library for everything gardening to landscape and repairs to home. The staff is delightful, friendly and happy to provide information. There are too many tools to describe, so I shot a couple videos to try and capture what they have to offer, and posted some requirements (residency in Oakland , Emeryville and Piedmont), etc.