Share Tools and Tech to Power Opportunity

A tech and tool library puts laptops, hotspots, drills, ladders, sewing machines, and safety gear within reach for individuals who cannot yet afford them but need them to finish schoolwork, apply and interview for jobs, and even to fix leaks, hang doors, and launch side gigs without new debt. This can start small; the collection will grow as the community leans in.

To Get Started:

• Ask neighbors what they’ll borrow first: Ask community members what they would be interested in borrowing. Conduct a brief survey with two questions, both online and on paper. Compile two top-ten lists: one for tech (laptops, hotspots, adapters) and one for tools (cordless drills, impact drivers, ladders, lawn gear, sewing machines, personal protective equipment).

• Pick a trusted host and set hours: Select a trusted venue such as a branch library, community center, or another communal space that has storage and volunteers. Clearly post weekly operating hours on the door, website, and social media. Make sure these hours are consistent.

• Write one page of rules: Write a one-page document outlining the rules for participation, including who can join, loan periods, renewal limits, safety checks, and late return procedures. Track borrowed items using barcodes and a spreadsheet or a low-cost lending app.

• Build a safe starter kit: Accept only working donations. Buy a few high-demand items new so people don’t have to wait. Add cases, bits, chargers, extension cords, batteries, and safety gear for every tool.

• Offer quick skills sessions: Provide quick classes on topics like “Job Search Basics,” “Phone Security,” and “Drill Safety 101.” Recruit instructors from high schools, trade programs, and retired professionals. Rotate these sessions monthly.

• Stack funding and report results: Combine various funding sources, such as a small city grant, a foundation donation, and corporate contributions. Introduce pay-what-you-can memberships. Keep track of borrowed items, completed projects, certifications earned, and money saved. Share your results to build community support.

Best Practices / Innovative Programs:

• Government

  • Arlington Public Library: Fix-It & Tool Library is a county-run lending library offering tools and small repair equipment for local residents. The program runs year-round and promotes DIY home maintenance and sustainability.

  • Chicago Public Library loans Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebook kits for multi-week use from neighborhood branches. Clear policies and simple pickup make access easy for families.

  • Oakland Public Library : Tool Lending Library lends hand and power tools to residents for home, garden, and community projects. 

  • San Mateo County: County Sustainability hosts recurring repair clinics with volunteer coaches, tools, and space. Residents learn to fix laptops and household items instead of replacing them.

• Business

  • Comcast: Lift Zones partners with community centers to provide free Wi-Fi and digital skills content for students and families. 

  • Dell + Goodwill: Dell Reconnect recycles and refurbishes donated tech through Goodwill, supplying hardware for local lending programs and training.

• Nonprofit Organization

  • Free Geek turns retired tech into reliable computers and teaches digital navigation in Portland. 

  • The Tool Library in Buffalo is membership-based and lends thousands of tools plus has hands-on workshops. This helps community members keep repair costs down and projects moving.

  • West Philly Tool Library is a tool lending nonprofit, with safety classes and project support.