Southeast Portland Tool Library SEPTL
location_onPortland, Oregon
infoAbout Southeast Portland Tool Library SEPTL
Southeast Portland Tool Library SEPTL
SEPTL operates from 1137 SE 20th Ave in Portland, Oregon as a free membership tool lending library run entirely by volunteers. The organization functions as a public library model applied to tools—members borrow hand tools, power tools, woodworking equipment, and gardening implements without membership fees, returning them after use. Founded on the principle that tools should be shared community resources rather than purchased for infrequent use, SEPTL explicitly frames itself as a mechanism to reduce both household expenses and environmental waste while fostering neighborhood connections.
Location and access
Location and access
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Helpful and friendly volunteer staff (mentioned 6+ times across reviews); wide variety of tools available; money-saving and environmentally sustainable alternative to buying tools.
GOOD TO KNOW
Staff can provide advice on DIY projects; website is comprehensive for browsing inventory before visiting; best for occasional/one-time tool needs rather than regular use.
SOME NOTE
One reviewer reported receiving broken powered equipment with dull blades and felt feedback wasn't addressed during check-in—quality control of returned items may be inconsistent.
BEST FOR
Occasional DIYers and homeowners tackling one-off projects; gardeners needing seasonal tools; people looking to save money and reduce consumption without commitment to tool ownership.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is the Southeast Portland Tool Library (SEPTL)?
SEPTL is a free community resource in Portland, OR that operates like a public library but for tools. It provides home and business owners, as well as tenants, with hand and power tools they need for simple maintenance, yard and garden work, and building projects while fostering community connections with neighbors.
help_outlineIs there a membership fee to use SEPTL?
No, membership to SEPTL is completely free. You do need to become a member to borrow tools, but there are no fees associated with membership.
help_outlineWhat types of tools does SEPTL have available?
SEPTL offers a variety of tools including hand tools, power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools. You can visit their website at https://www.septl.org/ to see their full tool inventory.
help_outlineWhat are SEPTL's hours of operation and location?
SEPTL is located at 1137 SE 20th Ave, Portland, OR 97214. You must visit during open hours to borrow and return tools. For specific hours of operation, please visit their website at https://www.septl.org/ or contact them directly.
help_outlineHow do I become a member and start borrowing tools?
To become a member, simply visit SEPTL during their open hours at 1137 SE 20th Ave, Portland, OR 97214. Membership is free, and you can begin borrowing tools right away. No prior registration online is required to become a member.
help_outlineIs SEPTL volunteer-run?
Yes, SEPTL is a volunteer-run organization. Community members donate their time to help manage the tool library and assist other members.
help_outlineWhat do customers think about SEPTL?
SEPTL has an excellent reputation with a Google rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 76 customer reviews, indicating high satisfaction among users.
help_outlineWho can use the tool library?
SEPTL welcomes home owners, business owners, and tenants. Anyone in the community can become a free member and borrow tools for their maintenance, gardening, and building needs.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Southeast Portland Tool Library SEPTLdoesn'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 | 4 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| North Portland Tool Library | Portland, OR | 5 mi | star4.8 | Free |
| ToolBox Project | Eugene, OR | 105 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Central Oregon Tool Library | Bend, OR | 120 mi | star5.0 | Sliding scale, suggested minimum $1 per $1,000 annual income (e.g., $50/year for $50,000 income), no one turned away for inability to pay. |
| Tacoma Tool Library | Tacoma, WA | 120 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
Interested in Southeast Portland Tool Library SEPTL?
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