The Mundelein Tool Library is trying to raise $45,000 to finish the interior of its new home so it can reopen.
“We found a great space but we need your help to complete the build out,” the nonprofit says on a GoFundMe page created two weeks ago.
The tool library was established in June 2021 and until recently operated rent-free in the village-owned former water division building at 428 N. Chicago Ave. It has been temporarily closed since early August when the inventory was moved just south to a vacant space in a shopping center at 309 N. Seymour Ave.
The Mundelein Tool Library opened in June 2021 in this village-owned building, but had to relocate recently because the building was sold and being redeveloped as a microbrewery.
Paul Valade/pvalade@dailyherald, 2023
The library had to relocate because its former home is being sold. Plans are to convert the building to Fenton’s Brewing Company, which would be the fourth microbrewery in town.
Besides having to pay rent for the first time, tool library officials said converting the space will cost an estimated $45,000. They started a capital campaign to raise the money by Dec. 15. Part of the space needs to be demolished, and various improvements have to be made to prepare for shelving, displays and a tool lending area, according to organizers.
Retired physical education teacher Van Miller introduced the concept of a tool-lending library in Mundelein seeing similar operations in Oregon. A volunteer group is trying to raise $45,000 to reopen in its new location.
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com
“We have no paid staff,” said tool library board member Roberta Rekus. “We operate solely with the assistance of volunteers.”
According to the GoFundMe posting, the organization also is looking for hands-on help with the building, volunteer and membership coordination, technology assistance and other functions.
Organizers say the new space will allow it to expand inventory, offer more workshops and serve more people.
“Our success is entirely dependent on the communities we serve to support us through fundraising efforts, donations and sponsorships by local businesses,” the GoFundMe request reads.
If the goal isn’t met, the organization will continue to make improvements and hopefully reopen the woodworking operation, Rekus said. Fundraising via events, classes, grants and sponsorships would continue, she said.
Said to be the first of its kind in Lake County, the number of tools available has quadrupled to about 1,700 since it began lending equipment and expertise to do-it-yourselfers. Its service area also expanded from the immediate Mundelein vicinity to all of Lake County.
According to the organization, the library has loaned 9,200 tools across 42 ZIP codes to more than 1,300 members. A wood shop with specialized equipment became part of the operation as well.
Village officials say the arrangement was always considered temporary because the building is in an area targeted for redevelopment.
