Tool Lending Library
Strengthening Gardens Through Shared Tools
Our Tool Lending Library supports NYC community gardens by providing access to essential shared tools that help keep gardens productive, safe, and thriving.
The Tool Lending Library is open to community gardeners ages 18 or older who are members of a New York City community garden. Home gardeners are not eligible.
We encourage gardeners to coordinate with their garden group before submitting requests, review our FAQs, and watch the required safety videos prior to borrowing tools.
The Tool Lending Library operates from mid-March through October each year.
How It Works
Review the FAQs
Confirm eligibility and lending policies.
Coordinate with Your Garden Group
Plan what your garden will grow and what your community needs.
Submit a Request
The program runs March through October.
Borrow, Use, Return
Tools are lent for a designated period and must be returned in good condition for other gardens to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The first known tool lending library in the US began in 1943 in Michigan. There were several active tool share programs in California in the 1960s and 1970s. Community gardeners in Brooklyn recall that Hattie Carthan operated a tool library during the 1960’s in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Today, there are many tool library initiatives across the country including some specifically for community garden groups, like the tool library run by the Washington D.C. Department of Parks.
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Loan periods are 14 days with the option to renew for an additional 7 days.
You can make requests as often as needed. Please coordinate with your fellow garden members so that each request serves your whole group.
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For delivery to your community garden: We have regular drop offs and pick ups twice a month. We will schedule with you. For pick up from the Green Guerillas office: We have flexibility Monday through Friday from 10am - 4pm, scheduled with at least 3 days notice.
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Please continue to check back on our website.
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You can browse safety videos here or search for specific videos on YouTube.
A Shared Resource for Stronger Gardens
Our Tool Lending Library supports collective care. By sharing resources, NYC community gardens can expand their impact, maintain their spaces more effectively, and strengthen the spirit of cooperation that defines community gardening.
Together, we cultivate not only food and flowers, but resilient neighborhoods.