London Tool Library
| London Tool Library | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Location | London, Ontario, Canada |
| Established | 2015 |
| Branches | 1 |
| Collection | |
| Size | 367 |
| Access and use | |
| Population served | 474,786[1] |
| Members | 500 |
| Other information | |
| Director | Jim Hamell (Project Coordinator) |
| Employees | 1 |
| Website | The London Tool Library |
London Tool Library (HTL) is a tool lending public library system based in London, Ontario, Canada. [2] Tool libraries loan specialized tools for both experienced and inexperienced community members who are interested in home repair, maintenance, building projects, community projects, gardening and landscaping. UnLondon Digital Media Association (UnLondon) a registered Canadian non-profit, is responsible for the operations and management of the London Tool Library. The LTL offers standard memberships to community members over 18 years of age. The LTL is supported by Goodwill Industries and Spirituality In You.
History
In 2015, the HTL was cofounded by Jim Hamell under UN London's belief in the sharing resource economy, as well as supporting local environmental initiatives. [3] The London Tool Library held its' first tool drive January 5th until March 1st, 2015. [4] In 2015 the LTL moved into 999 Collip Circle, Convergence Centre (Lower Level), London, ON, N6G 0J3. In Apr 1, 2015, they had their grand opening and have been operating since. The LTL motto is "Our Toolbox is Your Toolbox".
Governance
The HTL is governed by UN London's Board composed of seven citizen members who are responsible for the strategic planning, financial stability, and oversight of staff and volunteers. The Tool Committee and New Space Committee are used on both a temporary and permanent basis to meet requirements of the organization.
Services
Collections
The library has 367+ specialized tools from power drills and ladders to pressure washers and roto-tillers to loan to community members with all skill levels welcomed.[5] The inventory of equipment includes automotive, bike, carpentry and woodworking, electrical and soldering, home maintenance, metalworking, plumbing, remodelling, and yard and garden. The types of equipment include: hand tools, and power tools. An open-source electronic inventory system called Local Tools is used to automatically track tools and display their availability online.
Training
The London Tool Library offers affordable workshops open both to Tool Library members and the public on tool related skills and projects. In the Intro to Tools workshop, participants built a planter box; while in Routers 101, attendees created a cutting board.
Mission
Tool library
The Tool library performs the following main tasks:
- Tool Lending: all kinds for use in volunteer projects, facility maintenance and improvement projects, community improvement events, and special events.
- Tool Advocacy: for the complete and timely return of all borrowed tools, to guarantee the long-term sustainability of available inventory. Staff also seeks compensation for lost tools and tools returned late.
- Tool Maintenance: performing routine maintenance and repairs on all equipment to ensure good condition and to extend the lifespan of the inventory. This function is typically performed by volunteers and community service workers.
Makerspace
Makerspace are places where people perform the following main tasks:
- to learn about technology, crafts and other kinds of making;
- to share knowledge and skills with others; and
- to apply this knowledge and skill by creating things.
Branches
- London Tool Library, 999 Collip Circle, Convergence Centre (Lower Level), London, ON, N6G 0J3
See also
References
- ^ "London (City) community profile". 2011 Census data. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 8 February 2012.
- ^ "Tool library builds inventory". The London Free Press. 2015. Retrieved Jan 20, 2015.
- ^ "London Tool Library looks for help in setting up shop". London Community News. 2015. Retrieved Jan 11, 2015.
- ^ "London Tool Library Tool Drive". londonfuse.ca. 2015. Retrieved Jan 12, 2015.
- ^ "Inventory". Londontoollibrary.com. Retrieved 2015-04-13.
External links
- The London Tool Library - official site
- UN London -official site
