Why does everybody on the block need a bandsaw when most people only use one occasionally? Who has room in their garage for a full set of workshop or woodshop tools? But how many of us have had the desire to do at least one project with decent tools?
A number of communities have created Tool Sharing Libraries to address these needs. Not only does the library make tools available, but volunteers, and sometimes paid staff, teach people how to use them.
Some of these libraries are well funded through grants and well equipped with a staff to help people use them. Others are much more informal. How many of us have tools of some kind gathering dust in our garage? What if you could lend or donate the tool to a library, knowing you could go and use it yourself the one time in the next year or two that you might need it? What if a retired contractor (as an example) was willing to store the tools and help people use them?
These libraries can spring up through any non-profit group, a church, a school (via parent committees) or other existing group. Or a start could be as simple as renting that bandsaw from your neighbor for a small fee, instead of the local rental place or Home Depot. The idea is, there is so much that we can share, if we just think it through.
Some issues that can come up could be:
1. What if my tool gets broken? Either be willing to donate it and have that happen, or create clear agreements up front on responsibilities. People can each put some money into a pot that can replace broken tools.
Economies of scale apply - it will be cheaper than replacing every tool yourself that wears out or breaks. With group buying power, you can also more easily afford to upgrade your tools to commercial scale models that last longer and do more.
Another option is to have training requirements to ensure an expensive tool is properly used.
2. What if the tool I need is always being used by others? Create a waiting list. Again, this comes down to thoughtfully crafted agreements and good invisible structure design. List out all the things that would make you not want to participate, and work out ideas for fair agreements for each one.
There are some excellent resources out there (we’ve included a couple in the resources section at the end of this section) written by people who have been doing this for a while and have ironed out various problems that can come up. We recommend you replicate an existing successful model whenever possible.
Toronto tool sharing library.
Makerspace libraries are often found in public libraries but could be set up anywhere. They can include a sewing club, or pottery open studios, etc. They are a great way to strengthen and build a community that shares skills and resources.