Frequently Asked Questions
LA Tool Library
Where is the LA Tool Library located?
We are located in the basement of the Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Koreatown (we promise it’s cozy down here)! Check out this video on how to find us.
So Koreatown… where do I park?
The church we are in has a parking lot (navigate to 675 S Berendo St) that’s free for visitors and open during our operating hours. Please note the parking will be locked after hours.
Are you related to the city library? Can I use my LA Public Library card?
We are an independent nonprofit that’s not associated with any municipal library system, though we are huge fans of them! So no, unfortunately your library card won’t be able to let you borrow tools from us. If you’re really set on using your library card for tools, check out the LA County Library branches that have tool lending program!
Who’s behind the tool library?
The LA Tool Library is 100% powered by volunteers (some pictured below). There are too many names to list here. Come on down to the tool library to meet some of us!
What do I get as a member?
Members of the LA Tool Library gain access to the community inventory of tools (power tools, hand tools, gardening tools, and large and specialty tools). Imagine the projects you can take on, from home repairs to DIY projects to art builds, with affordable access to the right tools without needing to buy and store them. Not only will you be an important part of the LATL community, you’ll also contribute to the local sharing economy movement!
How exactly does tool borrowing work?
Members can borrow up to 10 tools at a time for up to 11 days. It can be extended for another 11 days if no one else has reserved the same tool after you. That’s 22 full days of building, tinkering, and fixing!
How do I become a member?
Membership is open to anyone! You can sign up on our online inventory platform on Lend Engine directly. Our membership fee is on a sliding scale between $10 to $20 per month or $80 to $120 per year. If cost is a barrier, you can also volunteer your time in exchange of a membership. Don’t forget to bring your ID and proof of address the first time you come in!
Tools are cool… but what else do I get?
Our library space has a in-shop bike stand for you to bring your bike in to work on. There is also a community third space for members and non-members alike to enjoy and connect. And we have a growing selection of books on repair and maker culture.
In the near future, we plan to start hosting workshops which members will be able to sign up first with discounted rate before the general public.
What tools does the LA Tool Library have?
Our community inventory is expanding, thanks to the sustaining members and the generous donations from our supporters! To list a few, we have: table saw, orbital jigsaw, miter saw, circular saws, power drills, basic hand tools. Take a look at our expanding inventory on Lend Engine!
Are you looking for volunteers?
Yes! Please fill out the volunteer interest form or email us directly at hello@latoollibrary.org to get in touch. You can also come down and chat with us directly when we are open!
How about tool donations?
We are able to receive most items and we love pre-loved and refurbished tools, but please let us know before you bring them in using the this form or email us directly at hello@latoollibrary.org. We also have a wish list that you can check out!
General
What is a tool library?
Part of the sharing economy, a tool library maintains and provides members access to a large community inventory of tools which include power tools, hand tools, gardening tools, and large and specialty tools. Members can borrow the tools for their home maintenance and repairs, DIY projects, and art builds without the burden of purchasing, storing, and maintaining them.
Where are other tool libraries in LA?
Use this map to find a tool library near you in LA!
What is the “sharing economy”?
The sharing economy is, well, about sharing! Unlike the dominant consumer economy, which emphasizes owning things yourself, the sharing economy is about accessing resources that are managed and owned by the community.
How will I benefit from a tool library?
If you’re like most people, you probably only use a six foot ladder a few times a year (like hanging up holiday lights). Even if the cost isn’t an issue, storing it in your house or apartment takes up valuable space. Now imagine all the other tools you might want but can’t justify buying or don’t have room to store—that’s where the tool library comes in: no buying, no storing. Plus, many tool libraries offer shared workshop space, classes, and community events to help you connect and learn.