2.4 KiB
Addendum — Mossridge Tool Lending Library
Options considered
Paid lending model (rejected)
Considered charging a nominal per-loan fee ($2–$5) to cover replacement and maintenance. Rejected as inconsistent with library mission of free access. Board has previously stated free access is non-negotiable for core services. A donation jar at checkout was proposed as a soft alternative; deferred.
Hardware store partnership (considered, deferred)
Mossridge Hardware (the store committing in-kind donations) offered to host a satellite lending point. Considered; deferred to year 2. The integration adds operational complexity (split inventory, cross-location tracking) we are not equipped for at launch. Reasonable to revisit once the main location is established.
Mobile lending van (rejected)
Proposed by a board member to serve outlying areas. Rejected for MVP — capital cost ($35K+ for vehicle + outfitting) exceeds the entire grant. Could be a year-three expansion if demand validates.
Skills classes alongside tool loans (deferred)
Considered offering "how to use a power drill" classes as a value-add. Deferred — interesting but distinct programming, not part of the lending service's MVP scope. Adult Services Librarian is interested in piloting separately.
Reference programs reviewed
- Berkeley Tool Lending Library (operating since 1979, ~3,000 tools, 250+ daily loans). Funded as a city service.
- Oakland Tool Lending Library (operating since 2000, smaller catalog, library-staffed).
- Toronto Tool Library (nonprofit, member-supported, paid model — different funding architecture).
Direct correspondence with Berkeley TLL staff (March 2026) suggested:
- Theft has been low (~2% annually) due to library card requirement and community norms
- The biggest sustainability risk has been staff hours, not tool replacement
- Most successful programs have a paid coordinator role, not pure volunteer
Potential expansion (year 2+)
- Hardware store satellite location
- Specialty tool categories: woodworking, automotive, sewing
- Skills classes paired with relevant tool checkouts
- Seed/cuttings library co-located in spring/summer
Insurance and liability — current state
Library counsel (Town of Mossridge legal department) has been consulted informally. Formal opinion pending. Existing policy covers patrons in the building; coverage for tool use off-premises is the open question. Awaiting written response before submitting grant application.