Tool libraries
Tool libraries directly prevent waste, conserve resources and save money by reducing unnecessary purchases. Instead of buying a tool or even kitchen equipment that you rarely use, you can borrow it.
The EcoConsumer public outreach program helps promote and support tool libraries in King County Solid Waste Division's service area of King County outside Seattle. This support is in conjunction with the King County EcoConsumer repair events program.
Two non-profit tool libraries currently operate (with limited hours, distancing, and other Covid safety measures) in King County outside Seattle:
- South King Tool Library external link – Opened June 2020 in Federal Way.
- Vashon Island Tool Library external link – Opened December 2014.
In Seattle, non-profit tool lending libraries include:
- Ballard Tool Library external link
- Capitol Hill Tool Library external link
- Northeast Seattle Tool Library external link
- Phinney Neighborhood Association Tool Lending Library external link
- Southeast Seattle Tool Library external link
- West Seattle Tool Library external link
Tool libraries within the Seattle city limits generally are supported or promoted more directly by the City of Seattle and other organizations, rather than King County.
Questions? Interested in starting a tool library in your community? Contact EcoConsumer program coordinator Tom Watson email Tom Watson via e-mail or at 206-477-4481.
This March 2014 Seattle Times EcoConsumer column Download PDF 25 K by Tom describes tool lending libraries and the local tool library movement (Tom wrote the EcoConsumer column for the Times from 2005 to 2015).
