Laverne Schell Tool Library
location_onSpringfield, Missouri
infoAbout Laverne Schell Tool Library
The Laverne Schell Tool Library is a program of Community Partnership of the Ozarks at the O'Reilly Center for Hope, 1518 E. Dale Street in Springfield, Missouri. In its own words: "A tool library works like a traditional library, but it lends tools instead of books. It’s a great resource for people who want to use tools, but don’t need them (or have a place to store them) all the time." Community Partnership says it lends home repair and gardening tools to Springfield residents and community groups.
Membership
A yearly membership is $30, with a prorated rate of $15 for memberships from January 1 to July 1. A lifetime membership is $300. Create an account on the library's myTurn site; once the request is approved, a membership charge is placed on your account, and your membership is created when it is paid. Past members update their account and email the library to renew. Gift certificates are available.
Borrowing
Members can borrow up to 5 tools at a time and keep them for one week. The library is open by appointment only, year-round. When you arrive at the O'Reilly Center for Hope for an appointment, check in at the front desk.
What You Can Borrow
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere is the Laverne Schell Tool Library?
At the O'Reilly Center for Hope, 1518 E. Dale St., Springfield, MO 65803. Check in at the front desk when you arrive.
help_outlineHow much is a membership?
$30 a year, or $15 prorated for memberships from January 1 to July 1. A lifetime membership is $300.
help_outlineHow many tools can I borrow?
Up to 5 tools at a time, for one week.
help_outlineDo I need an appointment?
Yes. The library is open by appointment only, year-round. Email ToolLibrary@cpozarks.org or call (417) 888-2020 ext. 128.
help_outlineCan I see the inventory online?
Yes, on the library's myTurn site at commpartnership.myturn.com.
help_outlineDoes the library hold events?
Yes, including a quarterly Fix-it Fair.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Laverne Schell 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbondale Tool Library | Carbondale, IL | 225 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Texas Tool Traders | Garland, TX | 357 mi | star4.2 | — |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 417 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| Sioux Falls Tool Library | Sioux Falls, SD | 472 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| Lafayette Tool Library | Lafayette, LA | 490 mi | — | Free |
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