The tool library is funded by The VINCI Foundation and the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership through the National Lottery Community Climate Grants.
What is a Tool Library?
Much like a library for books, a tool library holds tools for people to borrow. They can be borrowed for a week at a time. Our library holds a range of hand tools and small power tools, as well as some gardening equipment and bike maintenance equipment.
Why borrow tools instead of buying them?
Tools can be expensive for both your pocket and the environment! The average drill is used for 13 minutes in its lifetime. We think that’s a waste of the resources it took to make that tool. By borrowing you reduce your carbon impact and save money.
Membership
It costs £25 for an individual standard annual membership, and £10 for 18-25 year olds. Membership will give you access to our full inventory of hand and power tools, saving you money on buying equipment you might only use occasionally. For those on universal credit or similar benefits, refugees and those seeking asylum, free memberships are available.
Signing Up
You can now sign up for membership online via the borrow tools page. To complete your membership sign up, a member of our team will need to verify your ID and address in person before you borrow any tools. You will also need to sign our borrowing agreement and liability waiver, which asks you to follow some basic rules around using the tools.
ID For Membership
We will need to see a form of photographic ID (PASS Card, Citizen Card, Passport or Drivers License), and an official letter or bill sent to your home address in the last 3 months. To apply for a concession membership proof of benefits will also be required. If you can’t provide these please still speak to us as we will do what we can to make sure you can still join.
How does it work?
Once you have your membership, you will be able to borrow up to 5 tools at a time, for a week. You can renew your loan for up to a further week online or in person if it has not been reserved by anyone else. Pick up will be from the Rebuild Site, CA6 4RP.
Can I borrow everything you have or are there restrictions on who can have what?
We don’t place restrictions on who can borrow what. However, we do expect you to have reasonable proficiency in using the tool you are borrowing, and will take no responsibility for any injuries incurred through lack of knowledge or skill.
What about the workshop space?
We are setting up some work benches suitable for woodworking and small projects. These will be bookable by library members by the hour during our opening times, 10-4, Thursday – Saturday and Sundays 10 – 1. The space will also be available to community groups and we will also be hosting some workshop sessions too. More details to follow!
When can I start borrowing tools?
Right now!! You can sign up for membership and borrow tools via our borrow tools link above.
Please make sure you bring a form of photo ID and an official letter sent to your current address dated within the last 3 months the first time you pick up tools.
Can I Donate Tools?
Yes! Absolutely. Donated tools form a significant part of our library. We will assess and PAT test donations if needed before they put on the shelves. It would help us immensely if the tools were clean, in good working order and safe to use.
If we already have enough of a particular item we would still welcome the donation – sales of surplus tools can help to support our ongoing operation costs.
To make a donation please bring your tools along to our shop on Heathlands Industrial Estate, Carlisle on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday, 10am – 4pm. And Sundays 10am – 1pm.
If you have a whole garage or shed of tools that you would like clearing do get in touch with us as we may be able to help.
Join us to Volunteer!
We have numerous opportunities to get involved including:
- Checking in and out items
- Maintaining tools
- Logging new tools and inventory
All volunteers will have the option to have carbon literacy training and free membership to the library, as well as tea, coffee, biscuits, and other training opportunities.
For more information and to get involved send us an email, or pop in to our shop Wednesday – Sunday to have a chat with our friendly team.