Tacoma Tool Library
location_onTacoma, Washington
infoAbout Tacoma Tool Library
Tacoma Tool Library operates from 1102 Tacoma Ave S Suite 201 with a collection of approximately 2,500 tools and serves the greater Tacoma area through a membership model and volunteer-staffed operations. Founded on the principle of shared access to tools and equipment, the library functions as a lending system rather than a retail vendor, charging a $25 annual membership fee that reviewers have noted includes a pay-what-you-can component for those with financial constraints.
Inventory and Borrowing Structure
The library stocks power tools, woodworking equipment, gardening implements, and automotive tools across its collection. Specific items borrowed by members include carpet cleaners, pressure washers, stud finders, and laser levels—equipment typically used for occasional projects rather than professional or frequent applications. Members can borrow items for temporary use rather than purchasing them outright, a model reviewers consistently credit with saving hundreds of dollars on occasional equipment needs. One reviewer specifically noted that a single carpet cleaner and pressure washer rental eliminated the need for multiple tool purchases, while another member highlighted the ability to access specialized equipment like stud finders and laser levels without the expense of ownership.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful staff (mentioned in 6+ reviews); the cost savings and accessibility for occasional tool needs (5+ reviews); the community value and resource availability (4+ reviews)
GOOD TO KNOW
Pay-what-you-can membership option makes it affordable for those on tight budgets; staff provides hands-on guidance on how to use tools properly; tools are well-maintained by members who respect the community resource.
SOME NOTE
Limited hours and only one location currently available (mentioned in 1 review as a wish).
BEST FOR
Budget-conscious homeowners and renters with limited storage space; people tackling occasional household/yard projects who don't want to buy tools; DIYers who value expert guidance on tool selection and use.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is the Tacoma Tool Library?
The Tacoma Tool Library is a community resource that operates like a traditional library, but with tools instead of books. It provides low-cost access to shared tools and durable goods, encourages repair and reuse, and offers a safe community space for learning how to use household tools.
help_outlineHow much does membership cost?
Membership to the Tacoma Tool Library costs $25.
help_outlineHow many tools are available to borrow?
The Tacoma Tool Library has approximately 2,500 tools available for members to borrow.
help_outlineWhat types of tools does the library have?
The Tacoma Tool Library offers a diverse collection including power tools, woodworking tools, gardening tools, and automotive tools.
help_outlineWhat are the library's hours of operation?
The Tacoma Tool Library is open Monday and Wednesday from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The library is closed on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
help_outlineDoes the Tacoma Tool Library offer classes or workshops?
Yes, the Tacoma Tool Library hosts classes and workshops to teach members how to use household tools safely and effectively.
help_outlineIs the Tacoma Tool Library volunteer-run?
Yes, the Tacoma Tool Library is volunteer-run, relying on community members to help support its operations.
help_outlineHow can I contact the Tacoma Tool Library?
You can reach the Tacoma Tool Library by phone at (954) 866-5253, by email at info@tacomatoollibrary.org, or visit their website at https://tacomatoollibrary.org/. Their physical location is at 754 S. 38th Street, Tacoma, WA 98418.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Tacoma 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.
Standard membership
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South King Tool Library | Federal Way, WA | 7 mi | star4.9 | — |
| South King Tool Library - Auburn | Auburn, WA | 10 mi | star5.0 | — |
| SE Seattle Tool Library | Seattle, WA | 23 mi | star4.9 | — |
| PNA Tool Library | Seattle, WA | 30 mi | star4.9 | 3 |
| Shoreline Tool Library | Shoreline, WA | 35 mi | star4.8 | 25 |
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