WPTL’s inventory | image via westphillytools.orgWelcome newest Gridtern Liz Pacheco to The Griddle. She’s kicking it off right with a post on a community organization perfect for anyone tackling a spring home improvment project!
Sometimes the hardest part of starting that home improvement project or planting that backyard garden can be finding the right tools. For West and Southwest Philly residents, that’s no excuse thanks to the West Philly Tool Library.
The Library, which opened in 2008, is a mecca for the home project enthusiast, offering week-long loans of tools for help with household maintenance, gardening, yard work, furniture building and art projects. With more than 2,500 tools in their inventory, the Library has everything from a basic hammer to a cement mixer. For some extra project guidance, members can also check out a self-help book.
Along with tools and books, the Library also offers classes to those interested in broadening their DIY knowledge. In March they sponsored a free six-class basic home repair course with the Walnut Hill Community Association. Lessons included an introduction to using power tools, painting tips and tricks, and drywall installation and repair.
Tool donations are accepted and the Library also holds an annual yard sale where tools can be bought for bargain prices.
Membership is open to anyone and required for loaning tools. Dues are paid on a voluntary sliding scale and members pay $20-$50 a year depending on their annual income.
To see what the Library has in-stock, check out their online tool inventory or stop by Monday-Thursdays 6:30-8:30 p.m. or Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Library is located at 4620 Woodland Ave.
