Lending Guidelines
- You can borrow tools for seven days. Some tools can't be renewed.
- Please clean tools before returning them.
- Fines are $1.00-$5.00 for each day a tool is late, depending on the value of the tool.
- You do not have to renew tools. Any that are eligible will be renewed automatically. Log in to your account to check your due date.
- Call OTLL at (510) 597-5089 to place a hold on a tool.
- Tools must be returned to the Oakland Tool Lending Library during open hours.
- You have to register at the Oakland Tool Lending Library, even if you already have an Oakland Public Library card. Please register at least 15 minutes before closing time.
- Please read the Tool Lending Library Rules and Regulations.
- The shed, which houses many of our larger tools, also closes fifteen (15) minutes prior to closing.
- The first time you borrow tools, you can only borrow two. After you return your first tools on time, you can borrow ten tools at a time, with the exception of power tools. You can only borrow three power tools at a time.
Eligibility
Only residents or property owners of the cities of Oakland, Piedmont and Emeryville over the age of 18 years are eligible to borrow tools from the Tool Lending Library (TLL).
Fees and Fines
Please return library materials on time.
Late fees for tools are $1-$5 per day, depending on the value of the tool.
If you do not return a tool, you will be charged the current replacement cost. There are no refunds for replacement fees, even if you return the item after paying.
If you return a tool damaged, you will be charged a damage fee.
Fines and fees are payable at any Oakland Public Library location by cash or check. You can also pay your fines online.
