Chicago Tool Library
| Formation | 2019 |
|---|---|
| Type | 501(c)(3) non-profit organization |
| Purpose | Functioning as a tool library |
| Headquarters | Chicago, Illinois U.S. |
Region | Chicago |
| Website | chicagotoollibrary |
The Chicago Tool Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in the United States that helps individuals borrow thousands of items that range from basic hand tools and table saws to ice cream makers and camping equipment.[1] Chicago Tool Library was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Chicago. The organization operates through a warehouse location in the West Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago.[2]
History
The Chicago Tool Library started in the summer of 2019 in Bridgeport on the southside of Chicago as a community-driven organization that rented out donated tools. The inventory was wide-ranging from the beginning, ranging from power tools to masonry, woodworking and food-preparation hardware. To join, the annual fee was set at $1 for every $1,000 in annual income of the member. An additional requirement is to be a Chicago resident.[3]
The organization drew enough interest that a move to the West Garfield Park neighborhood, in a space five times larger than the library's original home, was necessary. The library opened its doors at the new location in 2023.[4]