Virginia Phelps started as a volunteer with the Tacoma Tool Library in the summer of 2024 because they wanted to feel like they were “making an investment in their community outside of their job and wanted to make more friends.” Since then, they have done both. As a volunteer, Virginia will do “whatever is needed” including cataloguing items, helping move the library from NW Furniture Bank, processing donations and now serving as a Board Member and Chair of the Operations Committee.
Virginia has had many positive moments at the Tacoma Tool Library, but he one that stands out to them the most was at the grand reopening on February 1st, 2025:
“I talked to so many people, and everyone was so excited about the new space and all its possibilities! Everyone was so excited about sharing and community! February is always a bit depressing in the Pacific Northwest, and February 2025 was a real bummer after the presidential inauguration. The day of the grand reopening stands out as a huge shining light in my memory! Even on a quiet day when nothing is going on, the second floor mixing chamber always feels a tiny bit magical to me.”
Having done two terms locally with AmeriCorps and working in affordable housing where they gained some construction experience, Virginia is able to help members find the right tools for their projects. Their best piece of advice is, “if you don’t have a handy family member, friend, or neighbor who can teach you what you need to know, the internet will have the answer.”
On what Virginia wants everyone to know about the Tacoma Tool Library, they had one thing to say, the library is “extremely cool and you should become a member. The sharing economy is rad.”
Thank you to Virginia for serving on the Tacoma Tool Library board!
