Carbondale Tool Library
location_onCarbondale, Illinois
infoAbout Carbondale Tool Library
Carbondale Tool Library operates from 118 North Illinois Avenue, inside Rainbow Cafe, and is staffed entirely by volunteers. The library serves as a community resource for tool access in Carbondale, Illinois, operating on a reservation basis to accommodate its volunteer-dependent model.
Location and Access
Location and Access
The tool library occupies space within Rainbow Cafe at 118 North Illinois Avenue in Carbondale, Illinois. The arrangement places it within an existing community business rather than as a standalone storefront, creating a co-location that integrates tool lending services into an established neighborhood gathering space. This location places the library in proximity to Southern Illinois University and within the central business district of Carbondale.
reviewsWhat Members Say
I don't have enough reviews to provide reliable pattern analysis. With only 1 review, I cannot identify consistent customer sentiments or verify patterns across multiple visitors.
**What I can note from this single review:**
- The reviewer appreciates it as a community resource
- Operates on reservation basis (contact them in advance to arrange pickup)
To create a meaningful review intelligence summary, I'd recommend collecting at least 10-15 reviews to identify genuine patterns in what customers love, practical logistics, and any common concerns.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat are the hours of operation for Carbondale Tool Library?
Carbondale Tool Library is open on Sundays from 12:00 PM. The library is closed Monday through Saturday.
help_outlineWhere is Carbondale Tool Library located?
Carbondale Tool Library is located at 118 North Illinois Avenue, inside Rainbow Cafe, Carbondale, IL 62901.
help_outlineHow do I contact Carbondale Tool Library?
You can contact Carbondale Tool Library by email at carbondaletoollibrary@gmail.com, or visit their website at https://carbondaletoollibrary.myturn.com/
help_outlineHow can I view what tools are available to borrow?
You can view the tool inventory by visiting their website at https://carbondaletoollibrary.myturn.com/ and clicking on the Inventory Button.
help_outlineIs Carbondale Tool Library volunteer-run?
Yes, Carbondale Tool Library is volunteer-run, which helps keep tool lending accessible to the community.
help_outlineWhat is the rating for Carbondale Tool Library?
Carbondale Tool Library has a Google rating of 5.0/5 stars based on customer reviews.
help_outlineDo I need to be a member to borrow tools?
Based on available information, you can visit their website at https://carbondaletoollibrary.myturn.com/ to learn about membership and borrowing requirements, or contact them at carbondaletoollibrary@gmail.com for specific details.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Carbondale 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
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Rental Center | Jacksonville, IL | 149 mi | star4.5 | — |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 193 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| American Rental | Morton, IL | 200 mi | star4.8 | — |
| Channahon General Rental, Inc. | Channahon, IL | 262 mi | star4.8 | — |
| Chicago Tool Library | Chicago, IL | 298 mi | star4.9 | 60 |
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