---
title: Mossridge Public Library — Tool Lending Library Proposal
status: final
created: 2026-04-30
updated: 2026-04-30
---

# Tool Lending Library at Mossridge Public Library

## What we're proposing

A free tool-lending service operated out of the Mossridge Public Library, modeled on similar programs in Berkeley, Oakland, and Toronto. Cardholders borrow hand and power tools (drills, saws, ladders, sanders, plumbing snakes, gardening tools) for up to seven days, free of charge.

## Why now

Mossridge residents face rising costs of home maintenance and DIY supplies. Anecdotally, demand for community-shared resources is high — staff have fielded "do you lend tools?" requests for years. A tool library extends the library's mission of equitable access to information and skill-building into the practical-skills domain.

## Who it serves

Mossridge residents with active library cards. Primary audience: single-family homeowners doing their own home repairs, renters making minor improvements with landlord permission, hobbyist woodworkers and gardeners. Estimated 8,000 households in the library's service area.

## Service design

- **Catalog:** Approximately 200 tools to start, prioritizing the most-requested categories (drilling, cutting, sanding, ladders, garden).
- **Loan period:** Seven days, one renewal allowed if no holds.
- **Borrower requirements:** Active library card, signed liability waiver, completed safety briefing for power tools.
- **Location:** Library basement, currently underutilized storage. Accessible by elevator.
- **Hours:** Tuesday–Saturday during library hours; tools returned via after-hours drop slot when closed.

## Funding

- ARPA infrastructure grant: $42,000 (anticipated, application pending)
- Friends of the Mossridge Library matching funds: $10,000 (committed)
- In-kind tool donations from Mossridge Hardware (committed in principle)

Year-one operating cost is estimated at $48,000, primarily tool purchase, maintenance supplies, and shelving/storage retrofit. Ongoing cost (year two and beyond) projected at $12,000 annually for replacement tools and consumables.

## Operations

The service will be run by trained library volunteers, supervised by the Adult Services Librarian. Volunteer training program to be developed in partnership with Mossridge Vocational Center. Estimated 4–6 active volunteers needed at any given time, with a roster of 12–15 trained volunteers to provide coverage.

## Risks

- **Theft and loss.** Tools are valuable and portable. Mitigation: deposit on power tools (refundable), card-required checkout, photo documentation at loan and return.
- **Liability.** Borrower waivers will be required; the library's existing insurance policy is being reviewed for coverage.
- **Demand uncertainty.** We do not yet know the actual borrowing volume the service will see.

## Success criteria

- Launch by Q3 2027 with a catalog of 200 tools.
- 300 unique borrowers in the first year of operation.
- Zero serious injury incidents.
- Tool loss rate under 5% per year.

## What we're asking

Board approval to proceed with the ARPA grant application and finalize the service design for fall 2027 launch.
