Ballard Tool Library
location_onSeattle, Washington
infoAbout Ballard Tool Library
Ballard Tool Library was founded in 2021 as a community-based tool lending library located at 7549-B 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98117. This facility operates as a sustainable public service, providing access to a variety of tools while fostering an exchange of knowledge among members. The library fits well into the surrounding Ballard neighborhood, an area known for its local shops and community-driven initiatives.
Tool Inventory and Membership Structure
The library maintains a diverse collection of tools categorized into three main areas: power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening equipment. The power tools include items such as drills, saws, sanders, and hardware that are essential for various home improvement projects. Woodworking tools feature a range of saws, chisels, and hand tools that cater to both novice and experienced woodworkers. Gardening equipment covers everything from hand tools to larger items like tillers and lawn mowers, addressing the needs of community gardeners and homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.
Though the exact tool count is not publicly listed, patrons can access the library's online catalog to view and reserve tools ahead of their visit, facilitating a streamlined borrowing experience. This extensive catalog not only provides visibility into the available tools but also allows users to plan their projects more effectively.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Many customers appreciate the affordability of the tool rentals (2 mentions) and the convenience of the online catalog for reserving items (2 mentions). Additionally, the community resource aspect is highly praised (1 mention).
GOOD TO KNOW
Customers note that an annual membership is required to borrow tools, which may not be ideal for those needing tools infrequently.
SOME NOTE
Some customers express concern that the membership fee may be too high for those who only need tools occasionally, suggesting it could be seen as a barrier to access (1 mention).
BEST FOR
This tool lending library is best suited for individuals who have limited space for tools, are looking for affordable tool options, or need specific tools for one-time projects.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat tools can I borrow from the Ballard Tool Library?
You can borrow a variety of tools including power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools.
help_outlineHow do I become a member of the Ballard Tool Library?
Joining is easy! If you are a supporting member of Sustainable Ballard, your membership is free. If not, you can sign up for an annual membership starting at $35 for individuals.
help_outlineWhat are the membership fees at the Ballard Tool Library?
Membership is free for Sustainable Ballard members. If you are not a member, annual memberships are $35 for individuals, $60 for supporting households, and $100 for sustaining households.
help_outlineWhat is the address of the Ballard Tool Library?
The Ballard Tool Library is located at 7549-B 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98117.
help_outlineWhat is the contact information for the Ballard Tool Library?
You can reach the Ballard Tool Library by phone at (206) 701-7000 or via email at manager@ballardtoollibrary.org.
help_outlineIs there a website where I can find more information about the Ballard Tool Library?
Yes, more information can be found on their website at http://ballardtoollibrary.org/.
help_outlineWhat is the purpose of a tool lending library?
A tool lending library is a sustainable public service that provides community access to tools and fosters an exchange of knowledge, all at little to no cost.
help_outlineWhat is the Google rating of the Ballard Tool Library?
The Ballard Tool Library has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 11 reviews.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Ballard Tool Librarydoesn't lend — buy them once and finish the job. Every item below ships from Amazon.
Tool libraries lend the tools — but you bring your own PPE. These are the basics worth keeping on a shelf.
ANSI-Rated Safety Glasses
Anti-fog, scratch-resistant. The pair you'll actually wear.
Work Gloves (Cut-Resistant)
Level-5 cut resistance handles utility blades and rough lumber.
Ear Protection (NRR 28+)
Circular saws and routers exceed 100 dB. NRR 28+ is the safe floor.
N95 Dust Masks (10-pack)
Critical for sanding, sawing MDF, or drywall work.
Tool libraries don't lend the stuff that gets used up. Buy these once, finish your project.
Sandpaper Variety Pack
60 to 400 grit covers most rough-to-finish work.
Drill Bit Set (Titanium)
Goes through wood, plastic, and most metals. Lasts longer than HSS.
Utility Knife Blades (100-pack)
Standard-size, fit most retractable knives. Cheaper in bulk.
Wood Screws Variety Box
Mixed lengths and gauges — saves a hardware-store trip mid-project.
Cheap, used constantly, not worth a library trip. Build your own small kit with these.
25-ft Tape Measure
Magnetic hook, standout reach. The one tool you'll grab daily.
Combination Screwdriver Set
Magnetic tips. Phillips + flathead in the sizes you'll actually use.
Stud Finder (Magnetic + Electronic)
Multi-mode finders catch both magnetic fasteners and wood/metal studs.
9-in-1 Multi-Bit Driver
Replaces a kit of screwdrivers and nut drivers in one handle.
Books and plans that show you how to actually use the tools you're borrowing.
Reader's Digest Complete DIY Manual
Plumbing, electrical, carpentry, drywall — the household bible.
The Woodworker's Pocket Book
Joints, wood species, finishes — fits in a tool bag.
Black & Decker Wiring Guide
Code-current, illustrated, written for homeowners not electricians.
Pencil & Carpenter Marker Set
Mechanical carpenter pencils + deep-hole markers — endless small wins.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are editorially independent — picks based on what tool-library users typically need alongside borrowed tools.
location_onContact & Location
dashboardFeatures & Categories
card_membershipMembership & Pricing
Annual membership gives you access to the full tool inventory for borrowing.
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PNA Tool Library | Seattle, WA | 1 mi | star4.9 | 3 |
| Shoreline Tool Library | Shoreline, WA | 5 mi | star4.8 | 25 |
| SE Seattle Tool Library | Seattle, WA | 9 mi | star4.9 | — |
| South King Tool Library - Auburn | Auburn, WA | 27 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Tacoma Tool Library | Tacoma, WA | 30 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
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