Tool Around at the HNL Tool Library
A Kaka‘ako library offers members tools instead of books, along with workshops.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
With DIY decorating, repairing, building and crafting more popular than ever, people are leveling up their skills at HNL Tool Library. As Hawai‘i’s first and only nonprofit tool-sharing community, it describes itself as “a traditional library, but with tools instead of books.” Members who sign up for either a monthly ($45) or annual ($210) membership can borrow from a large inventory that can be searched and reserved online.
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The unique Kaka‘ako library also offers various workshops with instructors—who include engineers, artists and DIY enthusiasts—demonstrating how to use its specialized equipment for woodworking, 3D printing and laser engraving. Attendees learn how to make everything from bottle caddies to picture frames to kukui nut keychains.
Upcoming Workshops:
April 6 – Woodworking Basics: Hanging Racks, $60
April 13 – Laser Engraving 101: Custom Charcuterie Boards, $60
April 27 – Woodworking Basics: Koa Chopsticks, $50
Classes are open to the public with a 20% discount offered to students, kūpuna, military and HNL Tool Library members. Keiki as young as 12 may attend with a guardian. Have a whole party of DIYers? Private workshops can also be arranged.
200 Keawe St. (inside Re-Use Hawai‘i), hnltoollibrary.org, @hnltoollibrary
