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| Frequently Asked Questions |
What is the West Philly Tool Library?
The West Philly Tool Library is a place where fellow community members can borrow a variety of hand, power, bike and garden tools to help us fix up our homes, maintain our yards, build furniture and other objects, and even start new art projects!
How much does it cost?
In order to belong to the Library, you need to become a member. Memberships start at $20 per year. However, we encourage everyone who can do so to become a Lifetime Member for a one-time investment of $200 or a Founding Member for an investment of $500 to $1000.
What's the difference between a Lifetime Member and a Founding Member?
Founding Members will not only receive lifetime memberships to the Library, but will receive special recognition in all Library materials. We are extraordinarily grateful for those community members who are able to become Founding Members and help us create the Library.
When will it open?
Starting in mid-September 2007, the Library is now open every Saturday morning.
Where will it be?
The Library is located at 4620 Woodland Avenue.
What will be its hours of operation?
Currently, the Library is open every Saturday morning. As the Library grows, we hope that it will be open on Saturdays and at least one or two weekday nights.
How will you make sure that no one steals the tools?
The Library is a community project operated by community residents from West and Southwest Philadelphia. We hope that community members will return the tools promptly and without undue damage. In order to help to ensure that tools are returned, however, we ask that all members provide two forms of identification (including one government-issued photo ID and one ID with a current address) and provide the names and contact information of two references. If tools are not returned on time, members will be assessed late fees.
What happens if I break or lose a tool?
Before members borrow their first tools, they must read and sign our tool borrowing policy. Members are expected to return the tools in the same condition as they were issued, barring normal wear and tear. The member is expected to pay for the loss of or damage to any tool.
Do other tool libraries exist?
Yes. There are over 20 other tool libraries in other cities in the United States, including Rochester, NY; Buffalo, NY; Columbus, OH; Portland, OR; Atlanta, GA; and Oakland, CA.
What tools will the Library carry?
We are still determining which tools the Library will carry. Other tool libraries generally carry carpentry and woodworking tools, power tools, plumbing tools, art and craft tools, ladders, wheelbarrows, and gardening tools. To see what tools the Tool Library in Berkeley, CA carries, click here (pdf). To see what tools the Tool Library in Atlanta, GA carries, click here (pdf). We definitely welcome your thoughts on which tools the West Philly Tool Library should carry.
Who runs the Tool Library?
Currently, the Tool Library has a steering committee of three people and receives help developing policies, recruiting members, and raising money from more than a dozen others. The Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition (GPUAC) is our fiscal sponsor.
Are the membership fees alone enough to pay for the Library?
No. We anticipate that the membership fees will pay for about half of the Library's annual budget. The rest of the budget will be raised from community supporters and corporate and foundation grants.
Can I donate tools to the Library?
YES! We welcome all tool donations. Because we are a project of GPUAC, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductible. For more information about donating tools, please click here to contact us.
How do I become a member of the Library?
To become a member, please complete a Membership Application and pay your membership dues. (You can now join online, too!) When you come in to borrow your first tool, you will be asked to sign a waiver form acknowledging liability for the use of the tools and agreeing to follow our tool policy.
How can I become more involved in the Library?
We welcome others to become involved in starting and running the Library. If you would like to become more involved, please contact us at 215-833-3190 or info@westphillytools.org.
How can I find out more information?
Please talk to any member of the Library for more information, or check out our website at www.westphillytools.org .
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