Cincinnati ToolBank
location_onCincinnati, Ohio
infoAbout Cincinnati ToolBank
The Cincinnati ToolBank lends tools and equipment to nonprofit and community organizations from its warehouse at 1682 E Seymour Avenue in Cincinnati, Ohio. It lends only to organizations, not to individuals. In its own words: "The Cincinnati ToolBank provides tools, equipment, and expertise to nonprofit and charitable organizations to help them reach their most ambitious goals." It is an affiliate of ToolBank USA and joined the network in 2012.
Who Can Borrow
ToolBank tools are only available to organizations: nonprofit, charitable and tax-exempt organizations, schools and PTAs/PTOs, neighborhood associations, faith-based groups, civic organizations and government agencies. A 501(c)(3) letter is not required, but every applicant documents its not-for-profit status.
Membership
Annual dues depend on the organization's budget: $25 up to $100,000, $50 up to $250,000, $75 up to $500,000, $100 up to $750,000 and $150 above that. Government agencies pay $150 and public school systems $25.
Borrowing
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineCan individuals borrow from the Cincinnati ToolBank?
No. ToolBank tools are only available to organizations such as nonprofits, schools and PTAs/PTOs, neighborhood associations, faith-based groups, civic organizations and government agencies.
help_outlineHow much does membership cost?
Annual dues run from $25 to $150 depending on the organization's budget. Government agencies pay $150 and public school systems $25.
help_outlineHow much does it cost to borrow tools?
A tool handling fee of 5% of each tool's retail value per week borrowed.
help_outlineHow long can tools be borrowed?
From one to eight weeks.
help_outlineHow do I order tools?
Only through the online Tool Order Manager (T.O.M.), at least two business days before pickup to avoid rush fees.
help_outlineWhen can I pick up or return tools?
By appointment only: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9 AM-3:30 PM, and Tuesday 12:30-3:30 PM.
help_outlineCan I donate tools?
Yes. Call (513) 246-0015 or email cincinnati@toolbank.org to set up an appointment.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Cincinnati ToolBank 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
card_membershipMembership & Pricing
Annual membership gives you access to the full tool inventory for borrowing.
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 95 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| The Well CDC | Akron, OH | 204 mi | star4.8 | — |
| E. Warren Tool Library | Detroit, MI | 236 mi | star4.5 | Free |
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 245 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| Garden Resource Center: Tool Library & Supply Depot (GRC) | Pittsburgh, PA | 257 mi | — | From $30 |
Interested in Cincinnati ToolBank?
Become a member and start borrowing tools today.
searchFind More Tool Libraries Near You