The Chicago Tool Library
Everyone could use a power screwdriver once in a while, but not enough to justify finding the space in a city apartment to stash it. That kind of luxury purchase could even be out of reach entirely. Enter the Chicago Tool Library, which opened in late August in Bridgeport. For a modest, sliding-scale membership fee, you can borrow everything from a sewing machine to a power washer to a camping tent, with instruction on proper use. Founders Tessa Vierk and Jim Benton share a vision of a brand new commons that became a success in its first months. Thanks to plentiful donations, the library’s collection boasts over 500 tools. Their biggest need: knowledgeable volunteers to sharpen blades, repair power cables and clean gunk out of mechanical bits. Need a tool? Swing by and browse. Know about tools? Lend your skills to training a patron or maintaining a tool that will be put to good community use. (Sharon Hoyer)
1048 W. 37th, chicagotoollibrary.org
Best of Chicago 2019
