FAQ
How does the Auckland Library of Tools work?
ALoT is a not for profit library of things, run by volunteers. Members pay a joining fee for 1, 6 or 12 months. Members can borrow up to 10 tools at a time, typically for a week at a time.
ALoT has received funding and support from Auckland Council and other organisations, as listed on our supporters’ page. Membership fees go towards rent, tool maintenance and repairs, snacks for our hard-working volunteers, and purchasing tools that our members have requested.
Do I have to be a member to borrow a tool?
Yes, you need to be a member so we can keep track of our loans/items.
How can I become a member?
You can sign up online here. You can join the library for 1, 6 or 12 months.
How much does it cost?
An annual membership costs about $2 a week, or $1.44 for student, gold and community service card holders.
Membership covers about 95% of our tools, however we do charge additional fees for battery powered items (typically $1 a day) and for high maintenance items such as chainsaws ($6/day) and the carpet cleaner and chipper (both $10/day). All fees are listed on our inventory.
How do I visit the tool library?
The library is located at:
21 Newton Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1010
When is the library open?
Tuesday/Thursday: 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Friday: 1:30pm – 5:30pm
Saturday: 10:30AM – 1:30pm
Do you have a *insert tool name here*?
Check out here or come in during opening hours
Can I renew my items?
Log into your account, go to “My Account -> Loans” to list all loans. If an item is renewable, a “Renew” button will be listed in the Actions column.
Items can be renewed once they have reached 70% of their loan period. Items can normally be renewed twice, as long as there are no pending reservations.
Can I reserve items online?
Yes, when you are logged in to your Auckland Library of Tools My Turn account you are able to reserve items for specific dates. Items that are overdue cannot be reserved.
Can I donate tools?
Yes please.
Most of our tools are donated, we love donations! However, we have limited space and volunteer capacity, so please get in touch with us first to check if we can accept your item donation. We prioritise good quality power tools, and have a list of wanted tools.
Please note, we do not accept broken tools, however, we do host a Repair Cafe on the first Saturday of every month.