Community Homeworks Tool Library
location_onKalamazoo, Michigan
infoAbout Community Homeworks Tool Library
The Community Homeworks Tool Library is run by Community Homeworks on Bryant Street in Kalamazoo, Michigan, alongside its Critical Home Repair and Education programs. In its own words: "Borrow the tools, build the skills, and get the job done for less. Our tool library is open to Kalamazoo County residents and pay-what-you-can, because everyone deserves the tools to get the job done safely."
Membership
All Kalamazoo County residents 18 and older can join. Individual yearly membership is pay what you can, with a suggested fee of $35: "whether it is $0 or $100, it is truly up to the member to determine what is affordable." Members sign a membership agreement and liability waiver.
Borrowing
The standard loan is 7 days, with exceptions for high-demand items, and renewals may be possible. Members can borrow up to 10 hand tools and 3 power tools at a time. The library charges no fees for late, lost or damaged tools, calling it "a commitment to our values of inclusivity, accessibility, and charity."
What You Can Borrow
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWho can join the Community Homeworks Tool Library?
Kalamazoo County residents 18 and older.
help_outlineHow much does membership cost?
It is pay what you can, with a suggested $35 a year. Members choose what they can afford, including $0.
help_outlineWhen is the tool library open?
Tuesday 2-6 PM, Thursday 11 AM-3 PM and Friday 11 AM-3 PM. Appointments are available outside those hours.
help_outlineHow long can I borrow tools?
Usually 7 days, with exceptions for high-demand items. Renewals may be possible.
help_outlineHow many tools can I borrow at once?
Up to 10 hand tools and 3 power tools, with case-by-case exceptions.
help_outlineAre there late or damage fees?
No. The library does not charge for late, lost or damaged tools.
help_outlineCan I donate tools?
Not at this time. The library welcomes tool suggestions for its wish list.
help_outlineHow do I contact the tool library?
Call (269) 998-3275 ext. 304 or email toollibrary@communityhomeworks.org.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Community Homeworks 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
card_membershipMembership & Pricing
Annual membership gives you access to the full tool inventory for borrowing.
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 64 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| E. Warren Tool Library | Detroit, MI | 134 mi | star4.5 | Free |
| The Well CDC | Akron, OH | 226 mi | star4.8 | — |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 279 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| Garden Resource Center: Tool Library & Supply Depot (GRC) | Pittsburgh, PA | 319 mi | — | From $30 |
Interested in Community Homeworks Tool Library?
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