Just like a library, but with tools

Once you’ve paid your yearly membership (£30), you can borrow tools for free

We have hand tools and power tools to cover a range of needs

  • DIY & repairs

  • home decorating

  • yard work and garden allotments

  • bicycle & auto repair

  • craft & sewing

Almost every power tool costs more to buy or rent than a whole year’s membership

As a BTL member, you’ll be able to tackle big projects without purchasing loads of equipment that might only be used once. You’ll have the peace of mind to borrow a tool if the need arises rather than splashing out on new gear, as well as being able to try tools before you buy them. Tools are resources that can be shared rather than individually owned, saving money, space and the planet.

Join Belfast Tool Library →
 
 

HOW TO

When is the Tool Library open?

Our lending sessions are

  • Tuesdays 6 - 9pm

  • Saturdays 10am - 1pm

What can I borrow?

For tool library members, it’s free to borrow up to six tools at a time for one week. You can view the tools we have available to borrow below.

We are always adding tools to our inventory, so please check back or get in touch if you don’t see the tool you need.

Browse inventory →

How do I renew a loan?

A typical loan is a maximum of 6 tools for one week. If you would like to extend your loan by a further week, you need to contact our friendly volunteer team before the due date:

Our Tool Librarians will check these messages during library hours and handle renewals for you.

We are all co-owners of these tools, so bringing them back on time, in a good, clean condition is part of your commitment to the library. As a helpful reminder, there are fees for items returned late or unclean, with money going to help cover BTL running costs.

  • Late fees of £2 per tool per session will be charged for items not returned or renewed by the due date

  • Cleaning fees of £5 will be charged on any tool returned heavily soiled

What about accessories I need for my tool?

Tools are mainly lent without consumables. We have a basic selection of accessories you can borrow with your tool, like drill bits for drills and safety goggles. It’s really important you return them along with your tool for the next person to use. We will also offer consumable items like sandpaper to fit our sanders (when available) for a small suggested donation.

As we aren’t able to stock every potential part, or if you need something really specialised, you may have to visit the hardware shop on your way home from the tool library.

How much does it cost?

Suggested membership fee is £30 for the year, though you are welcome to contribute more if you want to support the project. Because we want Belfast Tool Library to be accessible to everyone, you are also welcome to pay less if £30 is not affordable. If this is you, please write to emily@belfasttoollibrary.com.

Once you are a member, there are no further charges to borrow tools, and just that one-off £10 induction session to use the workshop. Public DIY and woodworking classes are priced individually, and members get a discount on all of these.

Can I become a volunteer Tool Librarian?

Of couse! The tool library and workshop are totally reliant on our brilliant volunteers, and we are always welcoming new members to our team. We hold volunteer inductions and training sessions throughout the year.

Fill out this expression of interest form to find out more.

P.S. Regular volunteers can use the library for free as a thank-you for their contribution