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Comment by angry_moose | Hacker News Reader

Tool libraries are starting to take off. Ours is $35/quarter and gives you free access to their full library:

https://mtl.myturn.com/library/inventory/browse

Any thoughts on how you'd decide what tools to rent, or which might be considered too hazardous? For example, I see you have angle grinders, but I'm not sure I'd want to start there if beginning a tool library.

Yes, we’re exploring features to help libraries or hosts decide what tools to buy based on local demand — things like surfacing what people nearby are searching for or requesting most.

We’re also adding ways to flag higher-risk tools, so if you’re just starting a library, you can focus on safer, high-demand items first. Really appreciate you bringing this up — both access and safety are key to getting this right.

Why not? They are dangerously AF but also necessary and get only light use. Perfect for a tool library.

I do worry about failure of the cutting disk if it was abused so maybe you have to sell people a new disk as part of the rental.

That’s awesome — $35/quarter for full access is such a great deal, and tool libraries like yours are doing amazing work for local communities!

Unfortunately, not every city or neighborhood has a tool library yet. That’s one of the reasons we built Patio — to make tools more accessible wherever you are. We’re also working with tool libraries to feature their listings and provide tools to help manage inventory, grow memberships, and reach more people.

If you’re interested in collaborating, feel free to reach out at julien@patio.so — would love to chat!

How do you protect agains "professionals" abusing the system. So maybe thats not relevant in USA but I see potential in our communities that smaller repair shops or construction contractor would come and use tools disproportionally to their input. That's especially relevant with consummable parts like blades, files, etc

I do a lot of diy, jobs on the side for friends and I know a handful of professional tradies.

None of them would want to not own tools they use even semi regularly and for insurance purposes (and peace of mind) they would almost certainly have to hire tools they don’t own from a rental company and they will just pass the rental cost on to the client.

Tradies own a lot of tools they use for one project and never again. They're definitely a viable market for a platform like this.

I totally agree with you!!

Absolutely, it’s not for everyone. Tool libraries aren’t meant to replace pro setups. I think they’re more for casual DIYers, for occasional project, or people who don’t want to buy something they’lll only use once or try a new tool before buying.

Normally you provide your own consumable parts for these sort of tool libraries.

Exactly!

A professional usually needs a tool when they need it and can't rely on the vagaries of availability at a library. And it's easy to kick out someone who checks out a tool all year.

Most consumable parts can be excluded from lending. Batteries are trickier.

You're totally right! I agree that batteries are also trickier but we're working on fixing this. If you have any ideas or thoughts, feel free to contact me at julien@patio.so

Yeah, that can happen. Having some basic rules and keeping an eye on things usually helps. People are often asked to bring or replace their own consumables too.

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