
West Philly Tool Library
location_onPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania
infoAbout West Philly Tool Library
1223 S Harmony St
The West Philly Tool Library operates from its location at 1223 S Harmony Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146. Founded with the aim of providing access to a variety of tools for individuals in the community, the library is situated near local landmarks that contribute to its visibility and accessibility. The building features a straightforward facade typical of the neighborhood’s utilitarian architecture, directly reflecting its mission to furnish practical resources for home projects and repairs. Within close proximity are retail outlets, cafes, and public transportation routes, making it convenient for local residents to access the library during its operating hours.
Inventory and Membership Structure
The West Philly Tool Library offers a wide selection of tools across different categories, essential for a multitude of projects, from basic maintenance to advanced crafting. Members can borrow a range of items that include approximately over 100 power tools and various woodworking tools in addition to hand tools. This notable inventory includes drills, circular saws, chisels, sanders, wrenches, and garden tools, catering to a wide spectrum of home improvement enthusiasts. The borrowing model is structured around a modest membership fee of $20 per year, allowing access to their entire inventory. This fee operates on a sliding scale, which can be determined based on individual circumstances, making it financially accessible to a larger segment of the community. For those truly unable to pay, there may be options for reduced membership fees, thus ensuring that no one is excluded from utilizing these vital resources.
Typically, borrowing operates under user-friendly terms that allow members to take equipment home for varying lengths of time, generally ranging from a few days to up to two weeks, depending on the demand for a particular tool. Tools that are frequently in high demand might have a shorter borrowing time. This flexible approach encourages both small projects and larger undertakings, catering to diverse community needs. Members are encouraged to check tool availability on the library’s website before visiting, streamlining the borrowing process.
Craft Classes and Workshops
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is the West Philly Tool Library?
The West Philly Tool Library is a tool lending library where members can borrow various tools for personal projects and community needs.
help_outlineHow do I become a member of the West Philly Tool Library?
You can become a member by joining online through their website; the membership fee is $20 per year on a sliding scale.
help_outlineWhat are the operating hours of the West Philly Tool Library?
The library is open Monday through Thursday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Friday from 10 AM to 1 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM.
help_outlineWhere is the West Philly Tool Library located?
The West Philly Tool Library is located at 1223 S Harmony St, Philadelphia, PA 19146.
help_outlineWhat types of tools can I borrow from the library?
The West Philly Tool Library offers a range of tools including power tools and woodworking tools.
help_outlineDoes the West Philly Tool Library offer workshops or classes?
Yes, the library offers hands-on workshops and classes where community members can learn woodworking, home repair, and more.
help_outlineHow can I contact the West Philly Tool Library for more information?
You can contact the library by phone at (215) 833-3190 or via email at info@westphillytools.org.
help_outlineWhat is the Google rating for the West Philly Tool Library?
The West Philly Tool Library has a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 65 reviews.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that West Philly 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.
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Tool Rental inc. | Brooklyn, NY | 79 mi | star4.8 | — |
| Total Tool Rental | Brooklyn, NY | 84 mi | star4.2 | — |
| Harrisburg Tool Library | Harrisburg, PA | 92 mi | star5.0 | 0 |
| DC Tool Library | Washington, DC | 120 mi | star5.0 | Free for DC residents |
| Tool Library Albany | Albany, NY | 202 mi | star5.0 | 20 |
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