‘A very valuable community resource’: Lincoln tool library is loaning out variety of tools for free

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — From screwdrivers to power drills to electric saws, the basement of the First Plymouth Church in Lincoln has rows of tools neatly laid out for the taking.

All thanks to the generous collaboration of neighbors and the organization NeighborWorks.

Brent Lucke is a community builder with NeighborWorks Lincoln.

He is usually working to bring affordable housing opportunities to Lincoln, but now he’s helping bring the community together through the Near South Tool Library.

“Life’s a lot easier when you know your neighbors, and it’s even easier when you share things with your neighbors instead of having to go out and buy all your own tools individually,” said Lucke.

He founded the new resource alongside a local teacher, Emily Trowneck.

It’s located in the Near South neighborhood, but all Lincoln residents are welcome to check out one of the over 250 donated tools.

Since the tool library’s launch in March, they have already had 57 check-outs.

“One of the volunteers at the desks will check you out. You get it for a week, or two weeks if you ask, and you can renew it for up to a month, whether it’s a hedge trimmer or a size of screwdriver that you need, it’s free for everyone who lives in Lincoln,” said Lucke.

The program is run by volunteers like retired contractor and First Plymouth Church attendee Roger Reynolds.

He says it’s exciting to hear about how the tools are making a difference in the lives of many Lincolnites.

“They’re either first-time home buyers, or they’ve moved into the neighborhood, and they’re in an apartment,” said Reynolds. “They don’t have room to store all these tools, and we get to hear stories about they’re starting gardens or trying to get their lawn going, or they’re remodeling their bathroom.”

Tynan Stewart came in for the electric lawnmower.

“I think it’s a very valuable community resource. You can just pop in here with no strings attached and get these amazing tools for free, just like you’re checking out books from the library,” said Stewart.

The tool library has guidebooks, too.

“If you’re really, you know, jonesing to do a project in your house or on your yard, we also do have some DIY guidebooks and things in the collection as well,” said Lucke.

He adds that several local non-profits have also used their service, such as Indigenous Foodways, which used their electric rototiller to till soil in their gardens.

If you would like to donate a tool or use one from the Near South Tool Library, you can find more information here.