Frequently Asked Questions
See below for answers to your frequently asked questions. Click the questions to expand and find the answers.
How does the tool library work?
Our Tool Library is a not-for-profit membership organisation and operates similarly to a book library but instead of books you can borrow tools.
By becoming a member you can use the library as little or as much as you like. You can browse the library inventory and reserve the things you want to borrow online, then come into our library to collect your tools during our opening hours. After you’re done using the tools, return them so the rest of the community can enjoy them too. Simple as!
How do I apply for membership?
Members must be over the age of 18 and live locally.
You will need to complete the application for membership on our join page. As part of this process you will need to pay your membership fee online, read and agree to a few documents, and we’ll need to verify a photo ID and proof of current address in person during opening hours. You will not be able to reserve tools until verified.
You must also have a credit or debit card as we require payment online as well as card details to be held securely on file in order to make reservations. Your credit cards are encrypted. All details are held securely within the system.
How much is membership?
Our membership fees are on our join page and differ based on the type of membership. Remember, all membership fees go towards running and growing the library. Currently our main membership fee is $75 full membership and $55 concession membership per year. Fees remain subject to change with notice.
How long can I borrow tools for?
One week is the typical length of time you may borrow a tool for. However, you may ask for a longer loan period and if it’s not a frequently borrowed tool we may be able to accommodate that.
You may also extend loans by a week by emailing us the tool number/s before the item is due at info@wyndhamparktoollibrary.com.au
Please note that extensions aren’t always possible if someone has reserved the item next or during peak periods. This is to ensure everyone equal access to equipment.
What tools do you have available?
Find out what tools we have available by clicking Browse Tools in our menu bar.
Our library is constantly growing and changing as we get more donations and invest membership fees into new tools.
If we don’t have something you want let us know and we can add it to our most wanted tool list.
Can my partner/housemate/friend use or borrow the tools I loan?
No, sorry. If anything happens to anyone using tools borrowed under your name, you are potentially liable.
If you are a couple we would encourage you to support us by taking out a couples membership.
What happens if I break a tool?
Firstly - please let us know the details ASAP. This allows us to quickly get the tool back in action, and helps ensure we’re not lending out broken tools.
Secondly - don’t sweat it! Our tools get a lot of use and they may break from time to time. There may be a small repair or replacement cost but we’ll actively try and avoid any cost to you where possible by attempting to fix it ourselves.
Just let us know so we can get the tool in working order again. Honesty is always the best policy.
Will you be running future workshops or classes?
Yes! How did you know? This is a future goal of ours but we’re currently focused on getting the library operational first. If you’d like to volunteer to offer your skills in helping us run workshops/classes or events we’d love to hear from you!
The librarian says I owe money for a fine. Why?
We charge a small late fee for overdue returns to incentivise people to bring tools back on time and keep them in circulation. If you can’t return a tool on time, we can help – check out the question above about how long you can borrow tools for.
Can I pay my fine next time? What happens if I can’t afford to pay my fine?
Late fees aren’t income, they’re incentive to keep our tools circulating, which keeps our community happy. We’re flexible with fine repayment, so come in and talk to our friendly library volunteers to work something out.
Remember that we’re a non-profit. Any money from fines goes back into the organisation.
Please note, that consistent late returns may result in restricted borrowing privileges. Be cool, and remember that all members need to have access to our tools.
Do you have consumables/spare parts?
Sometimes! You may need to buy them yourself, however our excellent members often donate spare consumables when they return loaned tools so we will have a “Shared Consumables” section for you to browse. We sometimes ask for a small donation for these.
This system works brilliantly when people pay it forward so if you have leftover screws/bolts/consumables from your project feel free to donate them when you return your borrowed tools!
Are the tools safe to use?
All our electrical goods are regularly tested and tagged, and our volunteers work weekly to clean, repair, and maintain our tools. But we cannot guarantee that tools will always be safe to use.
We do rely on you, our members to know what you’re doing when you use a tool and wear appropriate safety gear. Our librarians are happy to offer advice and direct you to resources, but we’re not experts in every tool.
Are there any instructions for the tools?
Sometimes! Our tools vary greatly in age and origin, so it’s not always possible for us to maintain comprehensive instructions for them. Some of the tools will have a link to a manual in the tool description.
Our librarians will also be happy to direct you towards internet resources when they can, and if you do happen to find an amazing manual/video for the tool you’ve borrowed, please let us know! We can add it to our tool description for future borrowers.
How do I volunteer?
We’re always looking for volunteers and are very happy to work with you to find the perfect role for you. Find out more by clicking volunteer in our menu bar.
Wait, I have more questions!
No problems! Get in contact with us here and one of our volunteers will respond ASAP.