Tool library: Difference between revisions

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Removed "shared workshop" synonym. Most tool libraries do not include an on-site workspace. Tools are lent out for home use.
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Amended lending section to focus on domestic use vs commercial use. Also included weather event response. Added Sustainable Reuse Advocacy section.
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A '''tool library''' is an example of a [[library of things]]. Tool libraries allow patrons to check out or borrow tools, equipment and "how-to" instructional materials, functioning either as a rental shop, with a charge for borrowing the tools, or more commonly free of charge as a form of [[The commons|community sharing]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.monitorsaintpaul.com/st-paul-tool-library-soon-to-open-in-midway/|title=St. Paul Tool Library soon to open in Midway|last=O'Loughlin|first=Margie|date=September 5, 2016|newspaper=[[Midway-Como-North End Monitor|Midway Como Monitor]]|issue=3|volume=42|page=1}}</ref> A tool library performs the following main tasks:
*Lending: all kinds of tools for use in volunteer at-home projects, facilityresidential maintenance and improvementrenovation projects, community improvement events, and specialweather eventsevent response.
*Advocacy: for the complete and timely return of all borrowed tools, to guarantee the long-term sustainability of available inventory. Staff also seeks compensation for lost tools and tools returned late.
*Maintenance: performing [[Planned maintenance|routine maintenance]] and repairs on all equipment to ensure good condition and to extend the lifespan of the inventory. This function is typically performed by volunteers and community service workers.
*Education: Some tool libraries also provide educational classes. Vancouver Tool Library and Community Access Center (VTLCAC) in [[Vancouver, Washington]] offers individual project support and classes on [[woodworking]] and [[Service (motor vehicle)|basic car maintenance]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vtlcac.org/events |title=Events |website=Vancouver Tool Library and Community Access Center |access-date=August 3, 2022 |archive-date=August 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220804005815/https://www.vtlcac.org/events |url-status=dead }}</ref>
*Sustainable Reuse Advocacy: tool libraries encourage shared access over individual ownership of tools. Repair events and education teach maintenance skills and extend the useful life of tool inventory.
 
== History ==