Matthew 25 Tool Library
location_onCedar Rapids, Iowa
infoAbout Matthew 25 Tool Library
The Matthew 25 Tool Library is a tool library run by the nonprofit Matthew 25 at 201 Third Avenue SW in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The entrance is on the back of the building, through the alley on 2nd Street SW. In its own words: "Get affordable access to tools for your home, garden, and maintenance projects through the Matthew 25 Tool Library. Borrowing a tool from us is a great alternative to buying or renting from a big box store."
Membership
The Tool Library is available for everyone and there is no membership fee. Small tools and hand tools can be borrowed for free; larger, more expensive tools have a low daily fee. Credit cards, cash and checks are accepted.
Borrowing
Rentals can be as short as two days, and late fees are enforced for tools not returned on time. You can browse the inventory online at matthew25.myturn.com, in person, or by calling and leaving a voicemail. Reserving online is optional; to reserve, create an account first, then pick up during open hours. Volunteer staff can answer questions, and safety training is available on request.
What You Can Borrow
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineIs there a membership fee at the Matthew 25 Tool Library?
No. Hand tools and small tools are free to borrow; larger, more expensive tools have a low daily fee.
help_outlineWhere is it?
201 3rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. The entrance is on the back of the building via the alley on 2nd St SW.
help_outlineWhen is it open?
Tuesday and Thursday 1-5 PM, and Saturday 9 AM-noon.
help_outlineDo I need to reserve tools?
No. You can reserve online at matthew25.myturn.com after creating an account, but it is not required.
help_outlineHow do I pay rental fees?
Credit cards, cash and checks are accepted.
help_outlineCan I donate tools?
Yes. Power tools must be in working order and battery tools need their batteries and charger. Drop off during open hours or call for larger donations.
help_outlineDoes it sell tools?
Yes. It sells a selection of new and used tools at affordable prices.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Matthew 25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Tool Library - St. Paul Branch | St Paul, MN | 220 mi | star4.9 | 25 |
| Sioux Falls Tool Library | Sioux Falls, SD | 278 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| Carbondale Tool Library | Carbondale, IL | 321 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Traverse Area District Library: East Bay Branch Tool Library | Traverse City, MI | 361 mi | — | Library card |
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 371 mi | star4.7 | Free |
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