Borrow Tools, Don't Buy Them

Find a tool library in your area or start one in your community. Access drills, saws, ladders, and hundreds of other tools without paying full price.

Search the Directory Start a Library

Updated January 2026 · 47 listings across 6 regions

47Listed Libraries

12k+Tools Available

$380Avg. Savings/Year

Tool Library Directory

Search for libraries by region or name. Listings include hours, membership cost, and the types of tools available. Some entries are representative examples to show what a full listing looks like.

Library Name	Location	Region	Membership	Tools	Status

Start Your Own Tool Library

No tool library near you? Starting one is easier than most people think. Follow these steps to get your community sharing tools within a few months.

Find 3 to 5 committed people. You need a small team to share the work. Look for neighbors, makerspace members, or local hardware store employees who like the idea.

Choose a storage space. A garage, church basement, or community room works. You need about 200 square feet to start. Make sure the space has power and is accessible.

Collect initial tools. Ask for donations from community members. Focus on hand tools and power drills first. Avoid large equipment until you have a system in place.

Set membership terms. Decide on fees, borrowing periods, and late policies. Most libraries charge $25 to $60 per year and allow 7-day loans for power tools.

Create a checkout system. Use a spreadsheet, a free app like MyTurn, or the printable forms below. Track who has what and when it is due back.

Get liability coverage. Talk to an insurance agent about a general liability policy. Have every member sign a waiver before borrowing. This protects you and the borrower.

Spread the word. Post on Nextdoor, put up flyers at hardware stores, and contact local community centers. A small launch event helps get the first 20 members.

0 of 7 steps completed

Quick tip: Partner with an existing nonprofit or community organization. They often have insurance, meeting space, and mailing lists you can use. This cuts your startup time in half.

Recommended Tool Categories

Not sure what tools to stock first? These categories cover the most common home and garden projects. Start with Tier 1 and expand as your library grows.

Tier 1: Start Here

Tier 2: Add Next

Tier 3: Grow Into

Printable Forms and Templates

Download or copy these templates to run your tool library. They cover inventory tracking, member signup, checkout logs, and liability waivers.

Tool Inventory Sheet

Track every tool in your collection. Includes columns for name, category, condition, purchase date, and current status.

Member Signup Form

Collect contact info, emergency contacts, and agreement to your library's terms. Works for paper signup or digital adaptation.

Checkout Log

Record who borrowed what and when it is due. Simple columns for tool name, member name, checkout date, and return date.

Liability Waiver

A basic waiver template. Have a lawyer review it before use. Covers personal injury and property damage during tool use.

List Your Tool Library

Run a tool library or equipment-sharing program? Add it to this directory so neighbors can find you.

Things Worth Knowing

Common Mistakes

New libraries often skip the waiver step and regret it later. They also buy too many tools before they have members. Start with donations, confirm demand, then purchase what people actually ask for.

Late Returns

Set a clear borrowing period (7 days for power tools, 3 days for large equipment). Send a reminder the day before the due date. A small late fee of $2 per day encourages on-time returns without causing resentment.

Tool Maintenance

Assign one volunteer per month to inspect and clean returned tools. Replace dull blades and dead batteries. A well-maintained tool comes back in good shape and lasts years longer.

Funding and Grants

Many cities offer small grants for community sharing programs. Check with your local sustainability office or community foundation. Hardware store chains like Home Depot also have grant programs for neighborhood projects.