Frequently Asked Questions
How does the tool library work?
The Bendigo Tool Library operates with the help of our many skillful, generous volunteers and the assistance of local and state government start up funding. It’s future sustainability will depend on annual membership fees and revenue from retail outlets, workshops and events.
Members must be over the age of 18 and live in Bendigo or surrounding areas. 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 just come into our library to collect your goodies 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!
What do I need to apply for membership?
You will need to complete the application for membership form below. As part of this process you will need to read and agree to a few documents, and we’ll need to see a photo ID and proof of current address to verify your membership. For Concession Membership we will need to see your current Health Care Card. This can be done by sending us a copy of your current license, passport or similar through email (info@bendigoshareandrepairshed.org) or presenting this to us when you come into the office to complete your registration. Membership will begin once applicable payment has been received and processed and ID recorded. This can take up to five working days.
How much is membership?
$60 concession per year (Health Care Card Holders)
$80 individual per year
$80 concession couple per year (Health Care Card Holders)
$110 for a couple per year
Once you have signed up and paid, you can borrow as many tools as you like for the next 12 months! There are no additional charges.
How long can I borrow tools for?
One week is the typical length of time you may borrow a tool for. However, you can 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@bendigoshareandrepairshed.org. Please note that extensions aren’t always possible if the item is in high demand, someone has reserved the item next or during peak periods. This is to ensure everyone has equal access to equipment.
What tools do you have available?
Find out what tools we have available here! Our library is constantly growing and changing as we get more donations and invest our membership fees into additional items and tools. If we don’t have something you want, please don’t hesitate to let us know and we can add it to our most wanted tool list.
Can my partner/housemate/friend use tools I borrow?
No, sorry. If anything happens to anyone using tools borrowed under your name, you are potentially liable. The nominated member is the only person covered under insurance to use the borrowed item. If you are a couple we would encourage you to support us by taking out a couple 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 - 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. Just let us know so we can get the tool in working order again. We don’t want to be loaning out broken tools and we will frown a lot if we find out ourselves that a tool is broken when we do our check before loaning them out again. Honesty is always the best policy.
Will you be running future workshops/classes/events?
Yes, we plan to run future workshops on everything from plumbing to painting to bike repairs. Check out the workshops page. 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! Please email us at info@bendigoshareandrepairshed.org
I have received an email that 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.
Hand tools - $1 per day*
Power tools - $5 per day*
*Late fees will be charged for each day we’re open (currently Thursday and Saturday = two charges per week)
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 volunteers to work something out. Also, remember that we’re a non-profit volunteer group. 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 for each tool? (e.g. sanding paper, cutting disks, whipper-snipper cord, etc.)
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. 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! Plus you can check out our Community Swap table for useful items that you may need. You will need to supply your own safety equipment eg gloves, work boots, safety goggles, visors or ear muffs.
Are the tools safe to use?
All our electrical goods are regularly tested for electrical safety, 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 volunteers are happy to offer advice and direct you to resources, but we’re not experts in every tool.
Let us know if a tool isn’t operating properly, or if you’re unsure of how to use it safely. If unsure, please stop using the tool and let us know ASAP - we won’t blame you for anything that’s happened while in normal use, and your safety always takes precedence over any project completion or deadline.
You will need to supply your own safety equipment eg gloves, work boots, safety goggles, visors or ear muffs.
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. Our volunteers 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. Contact us at info@bendigoshareandrepairshed.org and let us know what you are interested in.
How does the tool library contribute to sustainability?
Many people buy tools for a specific project and then once they’re finished let them sit in the shed gathering dust. Many of the tools in our library are pre-loved, donated tools that we’ve saved from just sitting around. Some of our donated tools we’ve saved from going to landfill as they were loved a little bit too much and required a little TLC and repair. And some of our tools are brand new. Either way, by joining and supporting the tool library you’re contributing to create a shared economy and reduce consumerism and our throw away culture.
Wait, I have more questions!
No problems! Get in contact with us here and one of our volunteers will respond ASAP.