Chippewa Valley Tool Library
location_onEau Claire, Wisconsin
infoAbout Chippewa Valley Tool Library
The Chippewa Valley Tool Library (CVTL) is a tool library and shared workshop at 320 Putnam Street, Suite 111, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. In its own words, it "is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to increase access to borrowed tools, educational programming, and shared workspace to neighbors and partners throughout the Chippewa Valley." It was established in 2025.
What It Offers
CVTL collects, maintains and lends tools for home improvement, DIY and lawn and garden projects, and runs an open workshop where members can work on projects. It also holds classes and events, such as a safety orientation and introduction to shop tools, and an introduction to woodworking.
Membership
Memberships are household memberships paid annually, in several tiers. You pay for a membership, then create a myTurn account, sign the general waiver and membership agreement, and put a debit or credit card on file. A lower-cost limited membership is available with a board member's approval. A Day Pass lets non-members use the shop, but a membership is needed to borrow tools.
Borrowing
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere is the Chippewa Valley Tool Library?
320 Putnam Street, Suite 111, Eau Claire, WI 54701.
help_outlineWhen is it open?
Wednesday 4-7 PM, Friday 4-7 PM and Saturday 10 AM-2 PM. Tool donations can be dropped off by appointment outside those hours.
help_outlineHow does membership work?
Memberships are household memberships paid annually, in several tiers. A lower-cost limited membership is available with board approval.
help_outlineHow long can I borrow a tool?
Seven days, with up to three renewals if no other member has reserved it.
help_outlineWhat if I return a tool late?
There is a day of grace, then a late fee of generally $1 a day. Fees above the tool's fair market value are forgiven.
help_outlineCan I use the workshop without borrowing?
Yes. A Day Pass allows in-shop use; borrowing tools requires a membership.
help_outlineDoes CVTL offer classes?
Yes. Its calendar lists classes such as a safety orientation and introduction to shop tools and an introduction to woodworking.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Chippewa Valley Tool Library doesn'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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Tool Library - St. Paul Branch | St Paul, MN | 80 mi | star4.9 | 25 |
| Sioux Falls Tool Library | Sioux Falls, SD | 273 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| Traverse Area District Library: East Bay Branch Tool Library | Traverse City, MI | 291 mi | — | Library card |
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 378 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| Carbondale Tool Library | Carbondale, IL | 504 mi | star5.0 | — |
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