Launceston’s First Tool Library Opens

After more than a year and half of planning, the Launceston Tool Library opened to the public in late November 2022.

Designed as a place where all members of the community can come and borrow tools to make or repair items in and around their homes and gardens, the library is run entirely by volunteers from the Kings Meadows Veterans and Community Men’s Shed.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said it was an easy decision to get behind the idea for Launceston’s first tool library.

“I was pleased to support the project with funding through the Stronger Communities Program which, combined with assistance from the Tasmanian Community Fund, the City of Launceston and the Rotary Club of Launceston, will provide significant support to many in the community,” Mrs Archer said.

City of Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson said the Launceston Tool Library would provide an exciting new service to the community, reduce resource consumption, and divert waste from landfill.

“Tools can be expensive and it often doesn’t make good financial sense to spend money on buying a tool you may only need for a five-minute repair job around the home,” Mayor Gibson said.

“Being able to sign up to the Launceston Tool Library for a modest membership fee and then being able to borrow tools will make simple repair jobs much more affordable for people across our municipality.”

The Men’s Shed spokesman Phillip Atkins said more than 100 different types of tools would be available for loan at the Launceston Tool Library, comprising a mixture of second hand and brand new tools.

“We hope it will be a real benefit to those members of our community who perhaps don’t have the space or money to own their own tools,” he said.

“This project has been a real team effort and we are incredibly excited to be opening up to the public, after so much hard work from so many people.”

To become a member, visit launcestontoollibrary. com.au