The Tool Library
location_onBuffalo, New York
infoAbout The Tool Library
The Tool Library operates from 2626 Main Street in Buffalo and maintains an inventory of over 5,000 tools available to members. Founded on a borrowing model rather than purchase, the organization charges an annual membership fee of $25, positioning tool access as an affordable alternative to individual ownership. The library has established itself as a community-focused resource with consistently high patron satisfaction, reflected in its 4.9 out of 5 star rating across 85 Google reviews.
Location and Hours
Location and Hours
The Tool Library occupies a storefront at 2626 Main Street in Buffalo's Allentown neighborhood. The facility maintains consistent weekly hours across four days: Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This schedule accommodates both working professionals who can visit after standard business hours on weekdays and those with flexible schedules available on Saturday mornings. Parking information is available through the organization's website for visitors unfamiliar with the Allentown area. The organization's contact number is (716) 510-1745, and inquiries can also be directed to info@thetoollibrary.org.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Extensive tool selection covering everything from common to specialty items (spike shoes for lawn aeration); remarkably fast and easy rental/return process; exceptionally friendly and helpful staff; exceptional value ($30-60/year membership vs. buying tools).
GOOD TO KNOW
Staff typically has 2-3 people working simultaneously to help patrons; they handle all maintenance and upkeep on borrowed tools; organization accepts donations of used tools.
SOME NOTE
Can get busy during peak times, so patience may be needed for service.
BEST FOR
Budget-conscious homeowners who want to avoid tool purchases; DIYers and home improvers who prefer renting over buying; community members seeking affordable access to specialized equipment.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere is The Tool Library located?
The Tool Library is located at 2626 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214.
help_outlineWhat are the hours of operation?
The Tool Library is open Wednesday through Friday from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
help_outlineHow much does a membership cost?
A membership to The Tool Library costs $25.
help_outlineHow many tools are available to borrow?
The Tool Library has over 5,000 tools in its inventory available for members to borrow.
help_outlineWhat types of tools does The Tool Library have?
The Tool Library offers a wide variety of tools including power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools.
help_outlineDoes The Tool Library offer classes or workshops?
Yes, The Tool Library offers both classes and workshops for members to learn how to use various tools and develop their skills.
help_outlineCan I request a tool that isn't currently in the inventory?
Yes, if you don't find the tool you're looking for, The Tool Library welcomes tool requests. They are always working to expand their inventory based on member needs.
help_outlineHow can I contact The Tool Library?
You can reach The Tool Library by phone at (716) 510-1745, by email at info@thetoollibrary.org, or visit their website at http://www.thetoollibrary.org/
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan Equipment Rental & Sales Inc | Village Of Clarkston, MI | 234 mi | star3.7 | — |
| West Philly Tool Library | Philadelphia, PA | 280 mi | star4.7 | $20/year (sliding scale) |
| East Lansing Public Library | East Lansing, MI | 286 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| DC Tool Library | Washington, DC | 292 mi | star5.0 | Free for DC residents |
| New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building | New York, NY | 292 mi | star4.7 | Free |
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