CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) --Chicago’s large tool library is preparing to move into a new, bigger location but not before having a close-out block party at its old location this weekend.
The Chicago Tool Library will grow to more than 7,000 items later this year, which is part of the reason for the need for a new, larger facility, according to executive director Tessa Vierk.
“We found a great location in West Garfield Park at 4015 W. Carroll right by Garfield Park Conservatory, right across the street from a Green Line stop so we’re really excited to be able to have a much larger space and to be a better resource for those who don’t have cars," she said.
“We really hope that being more transit accessible is going to help a lot of people, too, so we do expect to grow in our membership base, for sure."
Right now, Vierk said the Chicago Tool Library has about 3,000 members, people who pay whatever they want for an annual membership and then are able to borrow tools whenever they want.
Items available to borrow range from hand tools and lawn mowers to camping gear, kitchen equipment and electronics.
Vierk said the new location will open in January.
On Saturday, there’ll be a block party at the current location in Bridgeport, at 1048 W. 37th Street and there’s also a GoFundMe underway to help with added costs of being in a larger location.
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