Frequently asked questions
- How does the Tool Library work?
- Your neighbors have submitted tools using this form that you may borrow for short‑term use.
- How much does it cost to join and borrow tools?
- Nothing! The library is free to use. Just find a tool that you would like to borrow, e‑mail robert@shawtoollibrary.com, and I will coordinate the loan.
- How long can I hold onto the tool?
- The length of the loan should be discussed with the tool owner. But, generally, loans are short-term and the tools that were borrowed should be returned promptly. Be a good neighbor.
- I have tools that I would like to make available for others to borrow. How do I do that?
- Great! Use this form to submit your tools and add any notes that might be useful. The form requires you to enter your contact info, but those details are not made public; only I have access. Alternatively, you can e‑mail robert@shawtoollibrary.com with your tools and contact info if you don’t want to use the form.
- I want to delist a tool that I made available. How do I do that?
- Just e‑mail robert@shawtoollibrary.com and I will remove your item from the library.
- What happens if my tool gets damaged, broken or lost?
- The Shaw Tool Library does not insure any loans. We are simply a means of connecting tool owners and the neighbors who want to use their equipment. There is always a risk that tools might get damaged or lost. If this happens, the borrower should work with the owner to make things right. We will all adhere to the honor system, and participants are expected to be good neighbors.
- Who are you?
- My name is Rob, and I live on the 4200 block of Castleman Avenue. My wife and I moved to St. Louis from Washington, D.C., in April 2020. I started the first version of the Tool Library later that summer after getting fed up with buying tools for one-time jobs. I hope that the Tool Library helps give people a chance to become better handymen and handywomen, save money, and meet their fellow neighbors.