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Guelph Tool Library

The Guelph Tool Library promotes community sharing by providing access to tools and resources, fostering creativity, sustainability, and skill development. They empower individuals to complete projects while reducing waste and building connections.

Stitch Mentors is a Guelph Tool Library project that will help you learn sewing and needlecraft skills from senior mentors over a four week session. Our primary goal is to help share skills across generations, and the programs will be open to all ages and skill levels and free to attend, with supplies provided. The program is being funded by the New Horizons for Seniors Program awarded to us by the Government of Canada. Please note, you only need to register once, but it is a four week class that continues until January 29th.&nbsp;

Stitch Mentors - Session 3

The next &quot;How To&quot; Series is here! How to Fix That Thing is a series of workshops designed to help you care for and repair the things in your home. Join us on Thursday, January 22nd from 6-7:30 pm to learn all about tool sharpening!<p fr-original-style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(14, 93, 80); width: 396px; margin-inline: 0px !important; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.25px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5;" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(14, 93, 80); width: 396px; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.25px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; line-height: 1.5; margin-inline: 0px !important; margin: 0px;"> In this hands on session you&#39;ll learn how to sharpen knives and small hand tools. All supplies are provided, and you are encouraged to bring some knives and tools from home to work on.<p fr-original-style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(14, 93, 80); width: 396px; margin-inline: 0px !important; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.25px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5;" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(14, 93, 80); width: 396px; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.25px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; line-height: 1.5; margin-inline: 0px !important; margin: 0px;"> Tickets are $15 for Guelph Tool Library members, and $20 for non members. $30 benefactor tickets help provide subsidized admission for those facing financial barriers. To access a subsidized ticket, please email us directly. All attendees require a ticket, and this workshop is not suitable for those under 18.&nbsp;<p fr-original-style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(14, 93, 80); width: 396px; margin-inline: 0px !important; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.25px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; margin: 0px; line-height: 1.5;" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(14, 93, 80); width: 396px; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.25px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; line-height: 1.5; margin-inline: 0px !important; margin: 0px;"> The Guelph Tool Library will not be held liable for the condition or results of of any personal tools utilized in this workshop. We take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of our tools and supplies.&nbsp;

Knife Sharpening

Whether you&#39;re putting a summer speedster away to hibernate or rolling out your winter whip, Freehub is here to help you walk through a comprehensive clean and tune-up process to get your bike back into top shape. During the clinic, you will work on your own bike with the assistance of a Freehub volunteer, with 1 to 2 visitors per volunteer to make sure you have support throughout the process. Sign up for one of our three time slots available, each is 75 minutes long.We&#39;ll clean brakes and drivetrain, ensure hubs, bottom bracket, and headset are adjusted and lubricated, true wheels, tune shifting, and anything else we have time for. Freehub will provide all tools, gloves, glasses, aprons, cleaners, lubricants, and some common parts, but it&#39;s a great idea to bring in your own replacement parts if you&#39;ve got anything you know you need to swap out.This clinic is made possible through the support of the City of Guelph.

Freehub Winter Tune-Up Clinic

Stitch Mentors is a Guelph Tool Library project that will help you learn sewing and needlecraft skills from senior mentors over a six week session. Our primary goal is to help share skills across generations, and the programs will be open to all ages and skill levels&nbsp;and free to attend, with supplies provided. The program is being funded by the New Horizons for Seniors Program awarded to us by the Government of Canada. Please note, you only need to register once, but it is a six week class that continues until December 4th.&nbsp; Week One - Sewing machine basics. Learn how to safety set up and use a sewing machine, how to select the correct needle and thread for their desired projects, and what other items can help make the sewing process a breeze. Week Two - Participants will create one beginner friendly project, like a tote bag, or a set of coasters to get comfortable with the sewing machine. Any projects not finished in this session can be completed in week 3. Week Three - Understanding your pattern and selecting your size. Participants will have a choice between an elastic waist skirt, shorts, or pants. Patterns and fabric will be provided. We will go over choosing the right fabric for your pattern, selecting and adjusting your size, and cutting the pattern.&nbsp; Week Four - Cutting your fabric and starting your project.&nbsp; Week Week 5 - We will begin sewing our projects, covering topics like seam finishes, proper pressing, and following the steps of a pattern.&nbsp; Week Six - We will continue to sew our garments, working on the elastic waistband and hems.&nbsp;

Stitch Mentors - Session 2

Join us for Computer Security Day at the Guelph Tool Library! Explore the essentials of safeguarding your digital footprint. This event invites everyone from tech novices to skilled users to learn practical tips on protecting personal information online. As part of our mission to share resources and knowledge, this workshop will equip you with the tools to navigate the digital world securely. Guelph Tool Library&rsquo;s Computer Security Day takes place on Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 10:00am until 3:00pm at the Old Quebec Street Shoppes (55 Wyndham Street North in Guelph). This free community event will be used to raise public awareness on cyber security and to highlight the work of the Guelph Tool Library&rsquo;s Circular Computer Project. Join us for informative presentations on AI in fraud and how to protect yourself online, a Laptop Repair Clinic, Robotics Demonstrations, Free E-Waste Recycling, and Paper shredding for just $10/box, with all proceeds supporting the Circular Computer Project.

Computer Security Day

The Living Better on Less program offers interactive learning with the goal to help participants feel more connected in the community, to allow them to share their experiences, and to provide opportunities, information and resources available to mature adults 55+. The content of this series, with a focus on skills for living sustainably, has been shaped by input from past participants, as well as the Senior&rsquo;s Advisory Committee and the Living Better on Less Committee at the Guelph Tool Library.&nbsp;Living Better on Less is now offered through the Guelph Tool Library in partnership with the church. Living Better on Less received funding from the New Horizons For Seniors federal grant program to support the expansion of the program and to bring the program to smaller communities outside of Guelph.

Living Better On Less For Seniors - Elora

Beginner Hand Tool Workshop - Mounting Join us for a hands-on session dedicated to teaching you the basics of mounting items on walls, like pictures and shelves. Guided by experienced instructors, you&#39;ll learn to safely and effectively use a variety of tools available at the Guelph Tool Library, such as levels, screwdrivers, and stud finders. This workshop invites all skill levels to delve into the world of DIY projects. Embrace the joy of making while supporting our commitment to community and sustainability. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today.<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Hands-on tool use</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Community-focused learning</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">A welcoming and inclusive environment</li></ul>

Beginner Hand Tool Workshop

Please join us at our Annual General Meeting, where we gather to reflect on the past year and look ahead. At the Guelph Tool Library, we&#39;re all about empowering our community through shared resources and skills. As we continue to supply tools for your projects, your voice helps shape our path forward. Your participation matters.<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Learn about our latest initiatives in sustainability.</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Engage with others passionate about reducing waste.</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Contribute to our plans for the coming year.</li></ul>We&#39;re excited to have you be a part of our commitment to building a resourceful, greener community. See you there! Unable to attend in person? All registrants will receive a link to attend via zoom.&nbsp;

Annual General Meeting

We are once again offering our popular upcycled pottery mosaics class! Learn how to turn broken ceramics in to something new with instruction from a professional pottery instructor. Each participant will get to make a picture frame.&nbsp; This workshop is offered in two parts. On Monday, October 20th from 6-8 pm, participants will create and glue their designs, which will then cure over the next week. We&#39;ll pick up where we left off on Monday, October 27th from 6-8 pm with grouting and finishing.&nbsp; This workshop is $20 for GTL members, $30 for non-members. Class sizes is limited to 10 participants and pre registration is required. All supplies included.&nbsp;

How To Get Creative - Upcycled Pottery Mosaics

The Upcycled Dinner celebrates food rescue and food security as part of Waste Reduction Week and Circular Economy Month. The Upcycled Dinner is a free community meal that celebrates food rescue and food security as part of Waste Reduction Week and Circular Economy Month. - This year, our event will take place on Friday October 24th, 2025&nbsp;from 6 to 8 pm at All Saint&#39;s Lutheran Anglican Church, 210 Silvercreek Parkway North. The event is in collaboration with The Helper Bees, The Guelph Tool Library, and The City of Guelph. We will enjoy our meal made of rescued and upcycled food from 6-7, and then enjoy dessert and presentations from our partners. Please register, as space is limited. The Upcycled Dinner is free to attend, but donations are accepted. October marks Circular Economy Month in Canada and the Guelph Tool Library is teaming up with the City of Guelph and other community collaborators to present a number of activities to promote the benefits of a circular economy. During October, we invite everyone in Guelph to learn about the circular economy, celebrate our individual and collective efforts, embrace circular solutions, and encourage others to take action.

The Upcycled Dinner

Stitch Mentors is a Guelph Tool Library project that will help you learn sewing and needlecraft skills from senior mentors over a six week session. Our primary goal is to help share skills across generations, and the programs will be open to all ages and skill levels&nbsp;and free to attend, with supplies provided. The program is being funded by the New Horizons for Seniors Program awarded to us by the Government of Canada. Please note, you only need to register once, but it is a six week class that continues until October 16th.&nbsp; Week One - Sewing machine basics. Learn how to safety set up and use a sewing machine, how to select the correct needle and thread for their desired projects, and what other items can help make the sewing process a breeze. Week Two - Participants will create one beginner friendly project, like a tote bag, or a set of coasters to get comfortable with the sewing machine. Any projects not finished in this session can be completed in week 3. Week Three - Understanding your pattern and selecting your size. Participants will have a choice between an elastic waist skirt, shorts, or pants. Patterns and fabric will be provided. We will go over choosing the right fabric for your pattern, selecting and adjusting your size, and cutting the pattern.&nbsp; Week Four - Cutting your fabric and starting your project.&nbsp; Week Week 5 - We will begin sewing our projects, covering topics like seam finishes, proper pressing, and following the steps of a pattern.&nbsp; Week Six - We will continue to sew our garments, working on the elastic waistband and hems.&nbsp;

Stitch Mentors

<p style="margin:0px;padding:0px;box-sizing:border-box;font-size:16px;line-height:1.5rem;color:rgb(111, 114, 135);font-family:&quot;Neue Plak&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif;font-style:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;white-space:normal;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-color:initial">A﻿ll Guelph Tool Library (GTL) members in good standing are encouraged to join is for our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, November 20th at 6:30 pm. This is an important process for us as a non profit, but it's also fun! It's a chance to meet and mingle with other GTL members, and with the team of staff and volunteers that make what we do possible.<p style="margin:0px;padding:10px 0px 0px;box-sizing:border-box;font-size:16px;line-height:1.5rem;color:rgb(111, 114, 135);font-family:&quot;Neue Plak&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif;font-style:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;white-space:normal;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-color:initial">T﻿here will be two ways to join this year, virtually or IN PERSON!! Members wishing to attend in person are welcome to join us at 6:30 pm at the GAC ArtBar, which is the former home of the eBar, next to the Bookshelf Cinema. Complimentary refreshments will be provided. The meeting will begin at 7:00, with the doors opening at 6:30 for some time beforehand to settle in and enjoy some delicious snacks.<p style="margin:0px;padding:10px 0px 0px;box-sizing:border-box;font-size:16px;line-height:1.5rem;color:rgb(111, 114, 135);font-family:&quot;Neue Plak&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif;font-style:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;white-space:normal;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-color:initial">A﻿ll registrants will receive the link to join virtually, so if you decide to attend from home, you will be able to access the event.<p style="margin:0px;padding:10px 0px 0px;box-sizing:border-box;font-size:16px;line-height:1.5rem;color:rgb(111, 114, 135);font-family:&quot;Neue Plak&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif;font-style:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;white-space:normal;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-color:initial">Please use the Bookshelf Entrance, which has stairs or an elevator. The venue has ramp access via the Greenroom, and an accessible washroom.

Guelph Tool Library Annual General Meeting

What is the Brush Battle?The Brush Battle is a painting competition where artists compete to finish a work of art in 30 minutes in front of a live audience. Attendees vote for their favourite, and the top 5 from each round move on to compete for a cash prize.&nbsp;Each art piece will be up for sale via a silent auction following each round, with 35% of the proceeds going directly to the artist. The remaining 65% will help support 2026 programming and operating costs for the Guelph Tool Library. Who are the Guelph Tool Library?Founded in 2016, The Guelph Tool Library are a member-based lending library with over 1500 tools, kits, and small appliances available for borrow for a low annual fee. In addition to their inventory of tools, the GTL offers free Repair Cafes, a DIY Bike Centre, an open access seed library, affordable community workshops, and so much more! Membership fees only cover about 15% of operating costs at the GTL, who rely on grants, fundraising, and donations to continue offering this vital service. How Can I help?The Brush Battle Fundraiser for the Guelph Tool Library relies on the support of sponsors, artists, and ticketholders. To support us, visit our Zeffy page and select the sponsorship opportunity that works for you!

What is the Brush Battle?The Brush Battle is a painting competition where artists compete to finish a work of art in 30 minutes in front of a live audience. Attendees vote for their favourite, and the top 5 from each round move on to compete for a cash prize. Each art piece will be up for sale via a silent auction following each round, with 35% of the proceeds going directly to the artist. The remaining 65% will help support 2026 programming and operating costs for the Guelph Tool Library.Who are the Guelph Tool Library?Founded in 2016, The Guelph Tool Library are a member-based lending library with over 1500 tools, kits, and small appliances available for borrow for a low annual fee. In addition to their inventory of tools, the GTL offers free Repair Cafes, a DIY Bike Centre, an open access seed library, affordable community workshops, and so much more! Membership fees only cover about 15% of operating costs at the GTL, who rely on grants, fundraising, and donations to continue offering this vital service.How Can I help?The Brush Battle Fundraiser for the Guelph Tool Library relies on the support of sponsors, artists, and ticketholders. To support us, visit our Zeffy page and select the sponsorship opportunity that works for you!

Brush Battle Sponsorship

Become a supporting sponsor.  Do you recognize the value of the Guelph Tool Library to our community? Make a one time or annual gift to help us with operating costs! We have a number of options suitable for any budget, and donations directly support the project activities of the Guelph Tool Library. Did you know that membership fees only cover about 15% of our annual budget? Donations, grants, and fundraisers make up the bulk of our operating costs.

Become a supporting sponsor. Do you recognize the value of the Guelph Tool Library to our community? Make a one time or annual gift to help us with operating costs! We have a number of options suitable for any budget, and donations directly support the project activities of the Guelph Tool Library.Did you know that membership fees only cover about 15% of our annual budget? Donations, grants, and fundraisers make up the bulk of our operating costs.

Learn how to clean and maintain your sewing machine with one of our Stitch Mentors volunteers. In this class, you will learn the basics of taking your machine apart to clean and oil it, with some basic diagnostics and troubleshooting. Participants are encouraged to bring their own sewing machine for this class.&nbsp; Tickets are $15 for Guelph Tool Library members, and $20 for non members. $30 benefactor tickets help provide free or discounted registration for someone facing financial barriers, and include a ticket for you! If you are facing financial barriers and require a discounted ticket, please reach out to the GTL via <a fr-original-style="" href="mailto:communications@guelphtoollibrary.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">communications@guelphtoollibrary.org</a>. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Due to space limitations, a ticket is valid for one person and one machine only.&nbsp; This class will not focus on repair of broken or seized machines, as that is best handled by a professional. The Guelph Tool Library cannot be held liable for the condition of your sewing machine and any potential damages it may incur during this class.&nbsp;

Sewing Machine Cleaning

Learn about leatherworking in this hands-on intro class! We&#39;ll go over different types of leather, common tools, and how to embellish leather products. Participants will have a chance to cut, stamp, and burnish a leather keychain to take home.&nbsp; Tickets are $15 for Guelph Tool Library members, and $20 for non members. $30 benefactor tickets help provide free or discounted registration for someone facing financial barriers, and include a ticket for you! If you are facing financial barriers and require a discounted ticket, please reach out to the GTL via communications@guelphtoollibrary.org. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Due to space limitations, a ticket is valid for one person and one project only. This class is recommended for ages 18 and up.&nbsp;

Leather Working For Beginners

🎉 Get ready for an exciting evening of art 🎉 Brush Battle is a fast-paced live painting competition where local artists go head-to-head to create a work of art in just 25 minutes! Over three rounds, artists will compete for a cash prize. After each round, art will be up for sale via a silent auction.&nbsp; The event will feature a cash bar, exciting door prizes, and the chance to bid on art and gift baskets from local businesses.&nbsp;

Guelph Tool Library

Guelph Tool Library

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Leather Working For Beginners

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Brush Battle

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