Eau Claire tool library aims to spread self-reliance during economic uncertainty

Standing outside a tan metal warehouse near downtown Eau Claire, Mike Richter sees big potential. He’s the president of the newly created Chippewa Valley Tool Library nonprofit, which will lease space inside the nondescript building for what he describes as an affordable way for residents to build community.

“It’s kind of born out of any uncertainties from a state or national level economically,” Richter said. “I would just want the community to be tighter and more self-reliant in that way.”

Richter said for a monthly fee of $10, Chippewa Valley Tool Library members can borrow tools, use the nonprofit’s workshop spaces and attend classes on topics like home renovation or auto repair. 

“So, for example, basic tool operations, getting people acquainted with the tools in the first place,” Richter said. “Power tools … some can be pretty intimidating. I still don’t trust table saws, but that’s my thing.”

He said several tools have already been donated, and the nonprofit recently secured a $15,000 grant from the Pablo Foundation to help with startup costs. Richter said the plan is to open the doors in April.

“People often say it doesn’t make sense for everybody to own the same tool, household to household,” Richter said. “And it makes more sense to just kind of compile those into one place and make it more accessible and provide the education that people need to feel more confident.”

Tool libraries aren’t a new phenomenon. There are similar nonprofits in Madison, Milwaukee and Oshkosh. Richter said he and other board members have been getting advice from the well established Minnesota Tool Library in Minneapolis.

He said his philosophy in Eau Claire’s version is “sky’s the limit,” though he and his fellow board members “do have to rein ourselves in.” Richter said they’ve gotten requests to lend other items, like camping gear, but for now it’s all about those tools.

“Ideally, this inspires other people to kind of set up their own little libraries,” Richter said. “You know, like arts and crafts libraries, or camping and recreation — that kind of stuff.”