West Philly Tool Library - WPTL
location_onPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania
infoAbout West Philly Tool Library - WPTL
West Philly Tool Library - WPTL operates at 1223 S Harmony St, Philadelphia, PA 19146, and serves as a community-driven tool lending library that has leveraged its resources since its founding in 2014. Established to empower local residents, WPTL provides access to a diverse variety of tools as well as valuable classes that cater to home improvement needs and skill development. Its innovative approach allows individuals from all backgrounds, especially those in lower-income brackets, to engage in projects that would otherwise be financially burdensome due to the high cost of purchasing tools and materials.
Membership and Borrowing Terms
To utilize the resources available at West Philly Tool Library, individuals can become members for an annual fee of $20, which operates on a sliding scale. This membership fee is intentionally set to be affordable, making it accessible to as many residents as possible. In addition to this nominal fee, members may borrow tools for a duration of up to one week. An additional $1 per day fee is charged for any overdue items, a policy that has been favorably noted in reviews by patrons who appreciate the low financial penalties.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
Customers consistently praise the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff (mentioned 6 times), the variety and availability of tools (mentioned 7 times), and the opportunity to take engaging classes (mentioned 5 times).
GOOD TO KNOW
Free car charging is available, which is a convenient perk for visitors. The fine for late tool returns is $1 per day per item, noted as low by some customers.
SOME NOTE
A few customers mentioned that there could be an increase in the availability of charging stations for electric cars, and some noted a desire for a broader range of classes.
BEST FOR
This place is best suited for DIY enthusiasts looking to borrow specialized tools, individuals interested in home improvement classes, and community members seeking a welcoming resource for projects.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat is the West Philly Tool Library?
The West Philly Tool Library (WPTL) is a tool lending library where community members can borrow tools for their projects and learn through hands-on workshops.
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 are the operating hours of WPTL?
WPTL is open Monday to Thursday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Friday from 10 AM to 1 PM, and Saturday to Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM.
help_outlineHow can I become a member of WPTL?
You can become a member by joining online. The membership fee is $20 per year on a sliding scale.
help_outlineWhat types of tools can I borrow from the library?
WPTL offers a variety of tools, including power tools and woodworking tools.
help_outlineDoes WPTL offer classes or workshops?
Yes, WPTL offers hands-on workshops and classes, teaching skills like woodworking and home repair.
help_outlineWhat is the contact information for WPTL?
You can contact WPTL by phone at (215) 833-3190 or via email at info@westphillytools.org.
help_outlineWhat is the Google rating of 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 Library - WPTLdoesn'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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Philly Tool Library | Philadelphia, PA | < 1 mi | star4.7 | $20/year (sliding scale) |
| All Tool Rental inc. | Brooklyn, NY | 79 mi | star4.8 | — |
| Total Tool Rental | Brooklyn, NY | 84 mi | star4.2 | — |
| New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building | New York, NY | 85 mi | star4.7 | Free |
| DC Tool Library | Washington, DC | 120 mi | star5.0 | Free for DC residents |
Interested in West Philly Tool Library - WPTL?
Become a member and start borrowing tools today.
searchFind More Tool Libraries Near You