Toolshed Exchange
location_onHudson, New York
infoAbout Toolshed Exchange
Toolshed Exchange is Hudson's community tool library, in a green trailer on the campus of Basilica Hudson at 110 South Front Street in Hudson, New York. In its own words: "Toolshed Exchange is a tool lending library that provides Hudson-area residents access to tools and training, promoting a culture of collective stewardship and empowering neighbors to build and maintain more resilient and equitable communities."
Membership
Tools are lent free of charge to members, and membership is a sliding-scale annual donation. The suggested amount is $1 for every $1,000 of annual income, on an honor system with no proof of income. Membership is open to Columbia, Greene, Ulster, Putnam and Dutchess counties. Group memberships are offered only to local nonprofit organizations, and each person who borrows needs their own membership.
Borrowing
Members may borrow up to 7 tools for one week and renew once, for a maximum of two weeks. Reservations go through the library's myTurn catalog. Late fees are $1 per day per tool, capped at the value of the tool. Consumables such as saw blades, drill bits and sandpaper are not usually provided.
What You Can Borrow
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhere is Toolshed Exchange?
In a green trailer on the south side of the Basilica Hudson building, 110 South Front Street, Hudson, NY 12534.
help_outlineHow much does membership cost?
Membership is a sliding-scale annual donation. The suggested amount is $1 for every $1,000 of annual income, and borrowing tools is free.
help_outlineDo I have to live in Hudson?
No. Membership is open to Columbia, Greene, Ulster, Putnam and Dutchess counties.
help_outlineHow many tools can I borrow?
Up to 7 tools for one week, with one renewal for a maximum of two weeks.
help_outlineWhat are the late fees?
$1 per day per tool, capped at the value of the tool.
help_outlineIs it open all year?
The library runs a season (it reopened in May 2026). From November to April, borrowing is by appointment.
help_outlineCan I donate tools?
Yes. Tools should be in good working condition and must be pre-approved by emailing exchange@tool-shed.org.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Toolshed Exchange doesn'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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tool Library Albany | Albany, NY | 28 mi | star5.0 | 20 |
| Brooks Memorial Library: Field to Fork Tool Cottage | Brattleboro, VT | 75 mi | — | Library cardholders |
| Ridgewood Public Library: Library of Things | Ridgewood, NJ | 89 mi | — | Ridgewood Public Library or BCCLS member in good standing |
| Maplewood Library: Library of Things | Maplewood, NJ | 109 mi | — | Valid adult resident Maplewood Library card |
| Summit Free Public Library: Library of Things | Summit, NJ | 110 mi | — | Available to Summit residents 17 and over, paid members, and those employed in Summit |
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