Browse
Browse our tool inventory for the tools you need for the job
Join and Borrow
Join to borrow tools. It’s easy. All you need is proof of address, an email address, and photo ID.
We offer membership via a one-off annual fee on a sliding scale depending on what people can afford.
Collect
Our friendly volunteers will welcome you to pick up the tools!
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 to 16:00
Every Saturday 10:00 to 13:00
Volunteer with us
Find out more about volunteering at Inverness Tool Library
Inverness Tool Library is run by volunteers who believe that by working together and sharing resources, great things can be achieved!
There are plenty of opportunities to get involved, so if you would like to volunteer we’d love to hear from you!
Contact Drew at drewhillier@invernesstoollibrary.org.uk
Trish’s Volunteering Story
As part of Circular Communities Scotland Share and Repair ‘Gathering’ in Stirling recently, (the culmination of a four-day campaign directed at spotlighting the incredible volunteers who keep Scotland’s share and repair movement flourishing), freelance journalist, Fiona Russell, interviewed Inverness Tool Library’s Treasurer Trish in the Sunday Post, discussing the charity’s role in reducing waste, its ever-increasing membership, and of course, its happy band of dedicated volunteers, without whom the library wouldn’t exist.
After a career in the third sector, Trish – now retired – has held several volunteer roles in the organisation, including Chair, Treasurer, and Fundraiser. But it is working in the tool library itself that gives Trish most pleasure and satisfaction. As she says: “One of the great joys of being on duty at the library is meeting people and explaining what we do – and seeing the lightbulb moment when they get it, and say ‘Yes! This is such a fantastic idea!’
“I believe in the practice of reuse, repair and recycle,” adds Trish. “Tool libraries make a huge difference, and help people save money, loaning and donating tools and equipment in circulation that would otherwise end up in landfill.”
Gordy’s Volunteering Story
I was passing by the Inverness Tool Library back in the summer, when it was still based in the old Sterling furniture showroom, and thought it looked interesting. I popped in and got chatting with one of the volunteers. I told them about my interest in collecting tools, especially old, well-made ones. I’m lucky enough to have a couple of sheds and a garage – half of which is for the car, the other half for the tools, including a saw bench I’m currently making out of refurbished and repurposed tools and materials. I’ve got decades of experience and skills building things, and after hearing about the tool library’s work, I thought I’d like to get involved, especially as the ethos of keeping tools in circulation and not throwing things away is one that I strongly believe in. So, I put myself forward as a volunteer tool librarian.
That was six months ago, since when, I have found the camaraderie, flexible hours and chatting to folks about their projects very satisfying and worthwhile. I also live close to the library, so it’s very convenient, and not constricted to set times. It’s been an exciting period since I joined, with the relocation to New Start Highland; I’ve been busy during my shifts, helping move all the stuff and setting up in the tool library’s new home, including rejuvenating some old shelving units, painting them and making them as good as new.
There’s no question in my mind, volunteering with Inverness Tool Library – although you’re giving your time – you get back so much more in so many different ways.
We welcome donations of working tools (such as hand tools, electric tools, garden tools).
All tools are checked, PAT tested and serviced before being added to the tool library.
To donate tools, get in touch:
Upcoming Events
Follow us on Facebook to find out about upcoming events
Our Impact
Library members have increased
Hundreds of library members transformation projects completed
Carbon saved has more than doubled
Inverness Tool Library Annual Report (2024-2025)
Testimonials
“I would have loved to have access to this kind of thing when I was much younger and starting out with not much money or knowledge of DIY, no access to tools etc.”
Anonymous Survey Respondent
“I take every opportunity I can to pop into the Tool Library, not only because it’s local, but because they do incredible work. Their dedication to tackling the climate crisis is commendable, and they will always have my support.
I wish the staff and volunteers the very best with their upcoming move to new premises – I look forward to popping in for a brew, a blether, and to borrow some tools.”
Emma Roddick MSP for the Highlands & Islands
Where to find us
9 Carsegate Rd N, Inverness IV3 8DU
Opening Hours
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 to 16:00
Every Saturday 10:00 to 13:00
How to contact us
Email Address
Address
9 Carsegate Rd N, Inverness IV3 8DU
(Situated within New Start Highlands from 4th October 2025)
