A PROJECT OF SUSTAINABLE BALLARD · EST. 2018
Ballard Tool Library
Just like a normal library — but for tools. A sustainable public service giving the neighborhood access to tools and the know-how to use them, at little to no cost. Borrow the drill, the saw, the lawn mower, and bring it back when you’re done.
WHERE
7549B 15th Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98117
HOURS
Mon & Thu 5–7pm
Sat 9–11am
MEMBERSHIP
Free for members at any level
$35–$100
WHAT IT IS
A library — but for tools.
A tool library is a sustainable public service that provides community access to tools and an exchange of knowledge, at little to no cost. Run by neighbor volunteers and a project of Sustainable Ballard since 2018, it keeps well-loved tools in circulation instead of gathering dust in a hundred separate garages.
We use a very loose definition of “tool.” We aim to build a collection that represents Ballard’s artists, craftspeople, gardeners, mariners, and putterers — so why buy a tile saw you’ll use twice when you can borrow it next door?
HOW IT WORKS
Getting started takes about five minutes
No experience needed — just sign up, reserve, and bring it back when you’re done.
1
Become a member
If you’re a supporting member of Sustainable Ballard skip this step. Otherwise become a member!
2
Reserve your tool
Make an account on MyTurn, browse the inventory and book a reservation — or just drop by for a tour or to browse in person.
3
Borrow & bring it back
Rentals run $1–$20 per tool, per week. Return it clean and on time so the next neighbor can build, fix, or grow something too.
ON THE SHELVES
What you can find
From the usual drills and saws to many a dealy-bob and whatchamacallit — kept sharp and safe by our volunteer crew. There’s even a shelf of project books. Examples below.
Power and hand tools
- Cordless drill
- Circular & jigsaw
- Dremel tool
- Sander
- Sledgehammer
- Level
Garden & yard
- Lawn mower
- Wheelbarrow
- Loppers & pruners
- Cement mixer
- Jack hammer
- Pressure washer
Dealy-bobs
- Sewing machine
- Juicer
- Craft tools
- Event supplies
- Bike repair stand
- Moisture meter
Know-how
- Project books
- Repair guides
- Tool manuals
- Friendly advice
- Tool demos
INSIDE THE LIBRARY
A peek at the shelves
WHAT’S ON THE SHELVES
“Expect the usual drills and saws — as well as sewing machines, juicers, bike stands, lawn aerators, and many other dealy-bobs and whatchamacallits.”
The Ballard Tool Library — On its very loose definition of “tool”
IN GOOD COMPANY
Partners & supporters
The Tool Library keeps tools in circulation thanks to the software, supplies, and the goodwill of partners in the area.
LENDING PLATFORM
OUR RENTAL SPACE
DONATIONS & SUPPORT
LEND A HAND
Become a volunteer
Volunteers keep the doors open — as Tool Librarians, outreach helpers, or tool-maintenance tinkerers. However much time you have, there’s a spot at the table for you. Contact our Tool Library manager and let them know what interests you.