KCPL’s tool-lending program now available by appointment December to March
In Kenton County, winter doesn’t stop people from working on their homes. It just changes the rhythm. Basements become workshops. Garages turn into project spaces. Small fixes turn into long-planned improvements.
For the first time since it opened, Empower Tools will remain available to patrons throughout the winter months. From December through March, community members can schedule an appointment to borrow from more than 300 tools—giving them the chance to keep building, fixing, and improving the places they call home, even when the temperatures drop.
Jessie Hicks, Empower Tools Librarian, says the decision grew directly from the people who use the program.
“People don’t stop caring about their homes or their neighbors just because it’s cold outside,” Hicks said. “We see patrons who want to do the work themselves, learn new skills, and take pride in what they’ve built. Keeping Empower Tools open through the winter helps them keep going.”
Built by the Community, Used by the Community
Since its beginning, Empower Tools has quietly become one of KCPL’s most hands-on services. In 2025 alone, patrons saved nearly $50,000 by borrowing tools instead of buying them—money that stayed in household budgets and helped projects move forward.
But the real impact shows up in the stories from our neighbors.
There’s the young couple who bought their first “new old” house and stopped by nearly every week, each visit with a short list of tools. Two were always for their own repairs. The third was for a project they were helping an older neighbor complete.
A homeowner used Empower Tools to finish their lower-level remodel during the uncertainty of the pandemic, turning unfinished space into something usable and welcoming.
A young construction worker borrowed tools for his very first job, bridging the gap until he could afford his own equipment.
Another patron checked out roofing tools to help repair a local high school baseball dugout.
One used specialty tools to bring an old car back to life.
A couple borrowed a jig saw and sawhorses to install a cat door.
Another patron used a miter saw to replace windows in her camper.
“Every project is different, but they all come from the same place,” Hicks says. “People want to take care of their homes, help someone else out or learn how to do something new. That’s what Empower Tools is really about.”
How Winter Appointments Work
During the winter season, Empower Tools will move from walk-in availability to scheduled appointments. This approach allows staff to prepare tools ahead of time and spend more one-on-one time with patrons, answering questions and helping them choose the right equipment.
Appointments also can be scheduled by phone. Patrons are encouraged to browse the available tool collection in advance on the KCPL website.
A Program Rooted in Pride and Possibility
Empower Tools isn’t about power equipment alone. It’s about giving people the confidence and access they need to improve their homes with their own hands. Extending the program through the winter ensures that momentum continues project by project, neighbor by neighbor. No matter the season.
Learn more or schedule a winter appointment at kentonlibrary.org/empower-tools.
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