The Chicago Tool Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in the United States that help individuals borrow from an inventory of thousands of items that range from basic hand tools and table saws to ice cream makers and camping equipment.[2] Chicago Tool Library was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Chicago. The organization operates through a warehouse location in the West Garfield Park neighborhood.[3]
| Chicago Tool Library | |
|---|---|
 | |
| 41°53′11″N 87°43′36″W / 41.8862887°N 87.7265928°W | |
| Location | 4015 W Carroll Avenue Chicago, Illinois U.S.[1] |
| Type | 501(c)(3) non-profit organization |
| Established | 2019 |
| Other information | |
| Public transit access | Green at Pulaski |
| Website | chicagotoollibrary |
History
editThe Chicago Tool Library started in the summer of 2019 in Bridgeport on the southside of Chicago as a community-driven organization that rented out donated tools. The inventory was wide-ranging from the beginning, ranging from power tools to masonry, woodworking and food-preparation hardware. To join, the annual fee was set at $1 for every $1,000 in annual income of the member. An additional requirement is to be a Chicago resident.[4]
The organization drew enough interest that a move to the West Garfield Park neighborhood, in a space five times larger than the library's original home, was necessary. The library opened its doors at the new location in 2023.[5]
In late 2023, it was reported that the organization had 6,000 members.[6]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "Chicago Tool Library · 4015 W Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60624".
- ^ "Our Organization".
- ^ "Chicago Tool Library expands on West Side with more than just books". 3 April 2023.
- ^ "Chicago's New Tool Library is Awesome, Exactly What It Sounds Like". 25 July 2019.
- ^ "Chicago Tool Library Will Open in New Home on the West Side This Month". 11 January 2023.
- ^ "Chicago Tool Library provides access to thousands of tools on the city's West Side – CBS Chicago". CBS News. 19 October 2023.