
Southwest Metro Lending Library
location_onChaska, Minnesota
infoAbout Southwest Metro Lending Library
Southwest Metro Lending Library operates from 2480 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318, serving the southwest metropolitan area of Minnesota. Distinct from traditional libraries, this facility offers a variety of tools and other items for borrowing, fostering a culture of resource sharing and sustainability within the community. The library's straightforward presentation and welcoming atmosphere not only invite locals to participate but also encourage resource conservation by enabling residents to share items rather than purchase them.
Inventory and Services Offered
The Southwest Metro Lending Library has a large collection of over 1,000 items categorized into several key areas. Notable categories include power tools, woodworking equipment, automotive tools, lawn and garden supplies, camping gear, and a variety of entertainment items. Specifically, the library provides access to tools such as drills, saws, wrenches, and specialized gardening supplies like pruners and tillers, among others. Members can also find recreational items like bicycles, skis, snowshoes, and even novelty items such as bouncy houses and disco balls. This unique collection makes the library especially appealing for families planning events or individuals tackling home improvement projects.
Membership is free, which allows residents to join the library without a financial commitment. Loan periods typically range from one to two weeks, depending on the type of item borrowed. This flexibility is designed to accommodate both casual users who may only need an item for a short period and those undertaking larger projects that might require more time. For instance, borrowing a table saw for a weekend DIY project can easily fit within the one-week timeframe, while someone working on an extensive gardening endeavor may appreciate the ability to extend their loan.
Community Engagement and Events
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Customers consistently praise the extensive inventory with a wide variety of tools and items available for borrowing (5 mentions), the helpfulness and communication of the staff, particularly Dan (4 mentions), and the convenience of borrowing items for temporary needs (4 mentions).
GOOD TO KNOW
The lending library is seen as a valuable resource for those who need items for projects but do not want to purchase them, making it a great budget-friendly option.
SOME NOTE
A few customers mentioned wanting the inventory to continue expanding to include even more items, indicating they would appreciate additional offerings. Additionally, there were no specific concerns related to wait times or parking mentioned in the reviews.
BEST FOR
This library is best suited for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners needing tools for one-time projects, families looking for gear for outdoor activities, and anyone interested in borrowing unique items for special events.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is the Southwest Metro Lending Library?
The Southwest Metro Lending Library is a tool lending library located at 2480 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318, which offers a wide range of tools, camping and fishing supplies, lawn and garden equipment, small kitchen appliances, and household items for borrowing.
help_outlineWhat types of tools can I borrow from the library?
The library has a growing inventory that includes power tools, woodworking tools, gardening tools, and automotive tools, among other items.
help_outlineIs there a membership fee to join the Southwest Metro Lending Library?
No, there is no membership fee to join the Southwest Metro Lending Library.
help_outlineCan I attend classes or workshops at the library?
Yes, the Southwest Metro Lending Library offers classes and workshops for members to enhance their skills and knowledge.
help_outlineWhat is the library's Google rating?
The Southwest Metro Lending Library has a Google rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.
help_outlineHow can I contact the Southwest Metro Lending Library?
You can contact the library at (612) 594-0047 for any questions or inquiries.
help_outlineWhat is the mission of the Southwest Metro Lending Library?
The mission of the Southwest Metro Lending Library is to reduce waste, save money, and create a culture of sharing in the SouthWest metro community.
help_outlineHow can I access the library's inventory?
You can access the library's inventory by joining as a member through their website at https://southwestmetrolendinglibrary.org/, which gives you the ability to borrow tools and other items.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Southwest Metro Lending 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Tool Library - St. Paul Branch | St Paul, MN | 25 mi | star4.9 | 25 |
| Sioux Falls Tool Library | Sioux Falls, SD | 178 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| Webber Rental & Supply | Galesburg, IL | 312 mi | star4.2 | — |
| Channahon General Rental, Inc. | Channahon, IL | 357 mi | star4.8 | — |
| American Rental | Morton, IL | 357 mi | star4.8 | — |
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