Our May Seedlings recipient is Minnesota Tool Library. Round up your purchases all month long to support their work.

Minnesota Tool Library (MTL) is a member-based, volunteer-driven nonprofit that offers neighbors the opportunity to “Fix Your Stuff and Fix The World!” The MTL mission is to reduce waste, build resilient & equitable communities, and empower individuals through access to tools, training and shared workspace.

There are two branches where members can borrow over 5,000 tools for their home improvement, gardening, DIY, woodworking, and pinterest-worthy projects. With the Minnesota Tool Library, there's no need to rent or own costly tools for one-time use--instead, membership allows consistent, low-cost access to the tools you need. There is a maker-space at each branch where members can access large/specialty equipment and Build In Community. MTL is more than a lending library--they support each other to share skills & knowledge, whether informally via our volunteer shop mentors or Facebook member-share, or through a diverse offerings of community workshops and classes.

The Minnesota Tool Library is all about resource sharing, re-use and repair!
They're built on a sustainable, circular model, not unlike a co-op --that challenges consumer behavior and promotes more environmentally-friendly consumption. By sharing resources, waste from manufacturing is reduced and we make the most out of those items that are already in circulation. MTL gives tools a second-life as most of their inventory is donated, refurbished and repaired. Member projects by and large focus on repair, gardening and up-cycling. By empowering residents via hands-on DIY workshops and repair clinics, access and support -- more sustainable practices become affordable and attainable for all, and our communities are more resilient to economic and environmental disruption. MTL encourages members to form eco-friendly habits and share their experiences to inspire and support their peers. In terms of programming--DIY sessions often include topics like improving energy efficiency, sourcing project materials from local Reuse partners, waste prevention/recycling, urban homesteading and repair.