
The Tool Library
location_onBuffalo, New York
infoAbout The Tool Library
ARTICLE: The Tool Library has made over 5,000 tools available to the public since its establishment at 2626 Main Street, Buffalo, NY. This lending library operates with the mission of fostering community engagement while providing access to many tools for various projects. With an aim to accommodate both novice DIY enthusiasts and experienced builders, The Tool Library’s inventory includes categories such as power tools, gardening equipment, and woodworking tools, making it a valuable resource for a diverse user base.
5,000 Tools Available
The Tool Library maintains an extensive inventory of more than 5,000 tools. This collection encompasses a variety of categories, such as lawn and garden equipment, power tools, woodworking implements, hand tools, and even specialty tools for tasks like plumbing and electrical work. The diverse selection addresses the diverse requirements of users who may not wish to invest in purchasing tools outright, making it particularly beneficial for individuals involved in occasional projects or those without sufficient storage space to house a full complement of equipment.
Among the popular tools frequently borrowed are electric drills, circular saws, and various gardening implements like tillers and hedge trimmers, which cater to seasonal home and yard projects. Notably, patrons can access specific tools for more niche projects, such as drywall sanders and specialty woodworking tools, which might not be easily found in retail stores. The library continuously expands its collection to ensure it meets the evolving demands of its community, effectively serving as an equipment hub that encourages creativity and project exploration.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
The extensive selection of tools available (mentioned in multiple reviews), the friendly and helpful staff (noted several times), and the cost-effectiveness of borrowing tools instead of purchasing them (highlighted in multiple reviews as a great value).
GOOD TO KNOW
The annual donation fee ranges from $30 to $60, granting access to all tools, and the process for renting and returning tools is reported to be fast and easy. Customers should be patient during busy times as staff are typically managing multiple patrons.
SOME NOTE
A few customers suggest that wait times can vary depending on the number of patrons present, implying a need for patience when busy.
BEST FOR
DIY enthusiasts looking to complete home projects without the expense of buying tools, community members interested in sustainable practices by borrowing instead of buying, and those seeking a friendly and supportive local resource for tool needs.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is The Tool Library?
The Tool Library is a tool lending library located at 2626 Main St, Buffalo, NY, that allows community members to borrow tools instead of buying them.
help_outlineWhat are the operating hours of The Tool Library?
The Tool Library is open Wednesday to Friday from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
help_outlineHow many tools are available at The Tool Library?
The Tool Library has over 5,000 tools available for borrowing in its inventory.
help_outlineIs there a membership fee to join The Tool Library?
Yes, there is a membership fee of $25 to become a member of The Tool Library.
help_outlineWhat types of tools can I borrow from The Tool Library?
You can borrow a variety of tools including power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools.
help_outlineDoes The Tool Library offer any classes or workshops?
Yes, The Tool Library offers classes and workshops to help members learn how to use tools effectively.
help_outlineHow can I request a tool that is not available?
If you cannot find a tool you are looking for, you can request a tool, and The Tool Library is always working to expand its inventory.
help_outlineWhat is the Google rating of The Tool Library?
The Tool Library has a Google rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 85 reviews.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that The 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.
not specified
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harrisburg Tool Library | Harrisburg, PA | 210 mi | star5.0 | 0 |
| E. Warren Tool Library | Detroit, MI | 212 mi | star4.5 | Free |
| Michigan Equipment Rental & Sales Inc | Village Of Clarkston, MI | 234 mi | star3.7 | — |
| Tool Library Albany | Albany, NY | 258 mi | star5.0 | 20 |
| West Philly Tool Library | Philadelphia, PA | 280 mi | star4.7 | $20/year (sliding scale) |
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