North Portland Tool Library
location_onPortland, Oregon
infoAbout North Portland Tool Library
North Portland Tool Library, located at 2209 N Schofield St, Portland, OR 97217, has served as an invaluable community resource since it was founded. By presenting an innovative alternative to traditional tool ownership, the library allows local residents to borrow tools flexibly, effectively reducing the need for individuals to invest in expensive equipment that they may only use once or twice. This volunteer-run initiative operates under a free membership model, relying on community donations to sustain its services.
Inventory and Borrowing Terms
The North Portland Tool Library boasts a diverse inventory that includes power tools, woodworking equipment, gardening tools, and various specialty items. This extensive selection is designed to assist individuals with a wide array of home improvement projects, from small repairs to larger renovation tasks. The library regularly updates its inventory based on community needs and requests, ensuring that patrons have access to relevant and necessary tools.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Customers consistently praise the friendly and helpful volunteers (8 mentions), the impressive and wide range of tools available (6 mentions), and the community-focused nature of the library (5 mentions).
GOOD TO KNOW
The library operates on Saturdays between 10 AM and 2 PM, allowing patrons to check out tools for a week using a North Portland address.
SOME NOTE
A few customers mention that the selection is mostly good but hint at the desire for more equipment variety or specific high-dollar items.
BEST FOR
This place is best suited for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need tools for infrequent projects, individuals living in smaller spaces who may not have the capacity for large tools, and those looking for cost-effective solutions for home repairs and improvements.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat are the operating hours of the North Portland Tool Library?
The North Portland Tool Library is open on Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM. It is closed from Monday to Friday and on Sundays.
help_outlineIs there a fee to become a member of the North Portland Tool Library?
Membership to the North Portland Tool Library is free.
help_outlineWhat types of tools are available at the North Portland Tool Library?
The North Portland Tool Library offers a variety of tools including power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools.
help_outlineHow is the North Portland Tool Library operated?
The North Portland Tool Library is volunteer-run, meaning community members help manage its operations.
help_outlineWhat is the phone number for the North Portland Tool Library?
The phone number for the North Portland Tool Library is (503) 908-4835.
help_outlineDoes the North Portland Tool Library have a website?
Yes, the North Portland Tool Library has a website at https://nptl.myturn.com/library/.
help_outlineWhat is the Google rating of the North Portland Tool Library?
The North Portland Tool Library has a Google rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 52 reviews.
help_outlineWhat should I do if I encounter an issue with my membership or fines?
If you encounter an issue with your membership or fines, you can contact the North Portland Tool Library, and they will address it during their next open day.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that North Portland Tool Librarydoesn'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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Portland Tool Library | Portland, OR | 7 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| ToolBox Project | Eugene, OR | 109 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Tacoma Tool Library | Tacoma, WA | 116 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| South King Tool Library | Federal Way, WA | 120 mi | star4.9 | — |
| South King Tool Library - Auburn | Auburn, WA | 121 mi | star5.0 | — |
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