National City Public Library – u-Tool-ize Tool Lending Program
u-Tool-ize is a tool lending program intended on providing community members with free access to tools and equipment, with the goal of fostering environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and personal empowerment. The tool library carries a diverse range of tools for home improvement, gardening, electrical, plumbing, automotive, bicycle, and crafting which can all be borrowed, just like books, by NCPL cardholders. This program launched in July 2024 and is supported in whole or in part by 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.
Before borrowing any tools or equipment, users must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have a National City Public Library card (full privilege and in good standing)
- Create a tool library account in MyTurn (enter library barcode and DOB including the slashes, click login)
- Read and sign the u-Tool-ize user agreement
- Read and sign the liability waiver and indemnification form
- Verify identity with a government issued photo ID
After completing those steps, users can check out up to five (5) tools at a time for up to seven (7) days.
Tools must be returned clean. View tool inventory
The u-Tool-ize tool library is located on the second floor of the library, down the hall from the Tech Lab and restrooms. Tools can be checked out during the tool library’s designated open hours. Reservations pick up and returns are available at the Computer Center during regular library hours.
Library staff are not available to train patrons on operating tools or loading/unloading tools from vehicles. Most of the tool listings include links to instruction manuals and videos.
Browse & Checkout: The u-Tool-ize room is open Monday & Wednesday 4 – 6pm.
Reservations: Available during regular library hours at the Computer Center (2nd floor of library)
Returns: Tools can be returned during the u-Tool-ize open hours and at the Computer Center during regular library hours.
