2009 Program Guidelines

The Tool Library Program is designed to encourage low-cost home maintenance and improvements by lending tools and equipment free of charge to residents in designated service areas. This program provides over 200 different types of hand and power tools for home repair, maintenance, landscaping, and painting. Applicant and property criteria for participation in this program are outlined below.

Eligibility

In order to qualify for membership in the program, the applicant must: live within the CDBG Service Area; be the homeowner; or if applicant is a renter, have permission from the property owner/landlord to use the tools on the property. Non-profit agencies are also qualified. 

Application Process

Applications for the program are accessible through these links: click here for Homeowner/Renter Applications; click here for Landlord Applications; click here for Non-Profit Organization applications. 

An applicant may also call for an application to be mailed to them. Applicants may fill out the applications and mail the signed original to Rebuilding Together Central Ohio at 2771 E. 4th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219 or go to the Tool Library Storefront and Warehouse at 2771 E. 4th Avenue (intersection of Morris & E. 5th Ave - just east of Cassady Ave) Mondays through Thursdays between the hours of 8:00am and 11:00am, and also 1:00pm - 3:00pm.

Upon verification of information, member's information will be entered into the Tool Library database. The member is then eligible to borrow tools by presenting valid picture identification such as a Driver's license or a State ID.

Loan Process

Members can go to the Tool Library Storefront and Warehouse at 2771 E. 4th Avenue (intersection of Morris and E. 5th Avenue - just east of Cassidy Avenue) to pick up the tools and return tools by presenting valid picture identification. The hours of operation for the Storefront and Warehouse are Mondays through Thursdays between the hours of 8:00am and 11:00am, and also 1:00pm - 3:00pm.

Rebuilding Together Central Ohio signs out the tools borrowed on the Tool Loan Agreement form. The member signs the form and assumes all responsibility for the tools loaned. The member receives a copy of the form. 

Most tools are loaned on a first-come, first-served basis. Some items have a waiting list, so members are encouraged to call ahead to request an item.  For a list of tools click Tool List.

Tools are loaned on same day, one day, three day or for a one week period for members to work with at their residence. Exterior painting equipment can be loaned for up to two weeks. The member then returns the tools to the designated site location on or before the due date. After the returned tools are inspected, the technician signs the tools back in and notes the date of return and condition of the tools. Tools past due are subject to a $5 per day late charge.