Minnesota Tool Library - NE Minneapolis Branch
location_onMinneapolis, Minnesota
infoAbout Minnesota Tool Library - NE Minneapolis Branch
1620 Central Ave NE
The Minnesota Tool Library - NE Minneapolis Branch operates from 1620 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413. This facility is conveniently located near notable landmarks such as the Eastside Food Co-op and the historic Artisan Plaza, contributing to the vibrant community atmosphere. The library occupies a portion of a mixed-use building that exemplifies practicality and accessibility, providing an essential service for residents looking to borrow tools instead of purchasing them.
The Minnesota Tool Library was founded with the mission of empowering community members through shared resources, enabling individuals to save money, reduce waste, and acquire new skills. Although the specific year of establishment for this branch is not explicitly documented, it is a part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting tool sharing across the Minneapolis area, responding to the evolving needs of the local population.
8000 Tools Available
This branch's inventory encompasses over 8,000 tools across various categories, making it a significant resource for the community. Members can access an array of power tools, woodworking equipment, and gardening supplies, paving the way for a variety of projects—ranging from modest home repairs to extensive renovations. Specific categories include:
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Customers consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff (8 mentions), the wide selection of tools available for borrowing (6 mentions), and the affordability of the library with a low membership fee (5 mentions).
GOOD TO KNOW
Visitors are advised to check the website for open hours and to consider attending monthly free repair drop-in events for community engagement and assistance.
SOME NOTE
A few reviewers hinted at the potential for more classes or workshop offerings, suggesting an appetite for further educational opportunities in using tools.
BEST FOR
This place is best suited for DIY enthusiasts who need access to a variety of tools without the need for ownership, homeowners looking to save money on tools, and community members interested in skill-building through classes and events.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is the mission of the Minnesota Tool Library - NE Minneapolis Branch?
The Minnesota Tool Library’s mission is to empower each other, reduce waste, and improve communities by sharing tools, trade skills, and shop space.
help_outlineHow many tools are available for lending at the Minnesota Tool Library?
The Minnesota Tool Library has over 8,000 tools available for lending.
help_outlineWhat types of tools can I find at the Minnesota Tool Library?
The library offers a wide range of tools, including power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools.
help_outlineIs there a membership fee to join the Minnesota Tool Library?
Yes, there is a membership fee of $25 to join the Minnesota Tool Library.
help_outlineAre there classes or workshops available at the Minnesota Tool Library?
Yes, the Minnesota Tool Library offers classes and workshops to help members learn proper tool use and DIY skills.
help_outlineHow can I contact the Minnesota Tool Library?
You can contact the Minnesota Tool Library by phone at (612) 440-8665 or visit their website at http://www.mntoollibrary.org/.
help_outlineHow is the Minnesota Tool Library operated?
The Minnesota Tool Library is volunteer-run, meaning it relies on volunteers to help operate and manage the lending of tools.
help_outlineCan anyone participate in classes at the Minnesota Tool Library?
Yes, everyone is welcome to participate in classes at the Minnesota Tool Library, and members receive a 20% discount.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Minnesota Tool Library - NE Minneapolis Branchdoesn'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.
Standard membership
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Tool Library - St. Paul Branch | St Paul, MN | 6 mi | star4.9 | 25 |
| Sioux Falls Tool Library | Sioux Falls, SD | 199 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| Webber Rental & Supply | Galesburg, IL | 316 mi | star4.2 | — |
| Sandy Knoll Rental Center | Bear Lake, MI | 351 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Channahon General Rental, Inc. | Channahon, IL | 353 mi | star4.8 | — |
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