Hmm, library as in you check out the tool for a week or two then return it?

I would love that. I can't even begin to describe the *******-rigged scenarios I have had to come up with because I wasn't paying 450 dollars for one tool that I would use once or twice in my life.

Our local parts store lets you use their tools for generic issues, you pay a deposit that you get back when you return the tool, so it works for that one ball joint replacement or something.

If you are talking about larger tools, such as dozer or back-hoe, I always find it easier to hire a guy, they know their machine and work so much

 

Double Post....perhaps I can rent a tool for that??

 

Well, the concept of the tool library as it's been described to me is a co-operative business, run to pay its expenses but for no profit. You buy a membership and pay annual dues, but get the loan of hand or power tools at a very low rate.

These have been established in quite a few larger and smaller cities (but none so small as the "cities" around where I live!). But I don't know how they've worked out in the long run. I mean, for one thing: are the tools generally in as good shape, when you rent them, as the ones you can rent from traditional tool-rental agencies?

I have no idea if some of the tool libraries have been in a position to own and rent backhoes, dozers, etc.

 

We had something similar to a "tool library", through MWR (moral, welfare, and recreation), in the U.S. Air Force. It was handy because there was almost never room, to store personal tools, etc., while assigned to a Military base. They even had campers, boats and other equipment.

Even though the rules were pretty strict, they still had problems with personnel, not returning borrowed items, or items that were broken or missing, altogether.

 

The reason is that with a tool library you pay less for the tool and many keep it or return it broke.

 

The reason is that with a tool library you pay less for the tool and many keep it or return it broke.

Based on your personal observation, I guess. Has that been with military or civilian ones?

 

Couple yrs ago I decided to have a bbq/party. Needed to power wash house. Had a power washer, but the wand wouldn't work. Went to a rental place and they wanted $100 day to rent wand. Went across street to Lowe's; I could buy a new wand for $100.

 

Couple yrs ago I decided to have a bbq/party. Needed to power wash house. Had a power washer, but the wand wouldn't work. Went to a rental place and they wanted $100 day to rent wand. Went across street to Lowe's; I could buy a new wand for $100.

Hmmm... Sounds like a traditional tool rental though, right?

 

Here's one that looks comprehensive and appears to be successful.

http://westphillytools.org/

 

Based on your personal observation, I guess. Has that been with military or civilian ones?

Both. In the military they returned them but broke in civilian they just keep it.