Modcon Living Tool Library
location_onColumbus, Ohio
infoAbout Modcon Living Tool Library
The Tool Library is a program of Modcon Living at 3840 E. 5th Avenue in Columbus, Ohio. In its own words: "The Tool Library provides members with access to more than 1,225 hand and power tools for DIY projects, including community gardens."
Who Can Join
Individuals who live or work in Franklin County and are homeowners, or who have written permission from a property manager or landlord to make home improvements or repairs, are eligible. Renters with written authorization from the property owner can apply for a Renter/Tenant membership. Properties are verified using the County Auditor.
Membership
For single-property owners, an annual membership is $50, or $25 for students, seniors or veterans; a 30-day special project membership is $15. Multi-property owners pay $50 for the first property plus $25 a year for each additional property, or $30 for a 30-day project membership. Someone living at the same address as a member can join for $5 a year. The Home Ownership Sustainability Program offers income-based rates set by HUD income guidelines for people who cannot afford regular memberships.
Organizations
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere is the Modcon Living Tool Library?
3840 E. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43219.
help_outlineWho can join?
People who live or work in Franklin County and own their home, or have written permission from a landlord or property manager to make repairs. Renters with the owner's written authorization can apply for a Renter/Tenant membership.
help_outlineHow much is a membership?
$50 a year, $25 a year for students, seniors or veterans, or $15 for a 30-day special project membership. Income-based rates are available through the Home Ownership Sustainability Program.
help_outlineCan organizations join?
Yes. It is free for nonprofits with revenue under $50,000, then $100, $175 or $300 a year depending on revenue, and $25 a year for educators.
help_outlineHow many tools are there?
More than 1,225 hand and power tools.
help_outlineWhen is the Tool Library open?
Monday through Thursday 10 AM-6 PM and Saturday 9 AM-1 PM. Closed Friday and Sunday.
help_outlineHow long does an application take?
Allow at least one week for applications to be processed.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Modcon Living 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Well CDC | Akron, OH | 105 mi | star4.8 | — |
| Garden Resource Center: Tool Library & Supply Depot (GRC) | Pittsburgh, PA | 161 mi | — | From $30 |
| E. Warren Tool Library | Detroit, MI | 167 mi | star4.5 | Free |
| Louisville Tool Library | Louisville, KY | 195 mi | star5.0 | sliding scale donation |
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 207 mi | star4.7 | Free |
Interested in Modcon Living Tool Library?
Become a member and start borrowing tools today.
searchFind More Tool Libraries Near You