It will take some time and a little effort to get a tool cooperative going in your neighborhood. Talk to the neighbors you know first- you may be surprised how many people will be interested in the idea. Ask them to talk to the neighbors they know and keep track of the input they get. Having a list or spreadsheet of all of the houses on your street, block, or association is a good way to start. If you have an association your job is a lot easier- just bring up the concept at a meeting and go from there. If you live in an older neighborhood invite your neighbors to discuss the possibility of starting a tool cooperative.

Once you get the core group together it is time to make a wish list of tools to share. Make this a positive meeting and brainstorm all of the possibilities. I am fond of whiteboards for this and most likely there is one in the 'hood you can use. Write down ALL of the suggestions and keep the ideas flowing. Once you have the initial list prioritize it and break it up into urgency.

The next step is not as fun but necessary- the legal structure of the tool cooperative and the rules. It is good to get this started early in the process to set expectations and to reduce liability. You may want to get a lawyer involved to get a contract drawn up (maybe a neighbor) and form a legal entity. You need to decide on how tools are checked out, the duration of the use, the borrowers responsibility (repair and replacement cost), and where the tools are stored. This is a good time to decide on the initial membership cost and annual dues.

It is a good idea to elect a secretary, treasurer, and president at the first meeting. Offer a discount for the officers as an incentive. I have found many people like the idea of a tool cooperative but only a few will help make it happen- this can make or break the coop. It is also a good idea to find out if any members are handy and take on the equipment manager job to keep the tools maintained.

Now back to the fun stuff- budgeting and the initial acquisition cost of the tools. You can make donations part of the membership by giving the tools a fair market value. Find out if someone has space in their garage or shed to store the tools. Consider buying a shed if you have a member willing to have it put on their property. Make a spreadsheet or list of everything purchased or donated with serial numbers and maintenance requirements. Have the secretary gather any documentation and file it for future reference.

Once you have things started you may find other neighbors are interested in joining. A tool cooperative helps make a community out of your neighborhood and having meetings will help you get to know everyone. Communities make for safer neighborhoods, provides help for people that may need some assistance, and can build friendships. It is nice to walk down the street and know the people living around you.