The Maine Tool Library allows subscribers to check out tools and gadgets stocked in its Anderson Street storeroom. Food editor Peggy Grodinsky, above, recently chose some kitchen equipment she’s been intrigued with but didn’t want to buy.

A kale and fruit smoothie whirrs away in a Vitamix borrowed from the Maine Tool Library.

A Vitamix borrowed from the Maine Tool Library zips up a kale smoothie as silky as a milkshake.

Food Editor Peggy Grodinsky made hummus as well as a kale smoothie with a Vitamix from the Tool Library.

Chris Wall, newly arrived in Portland, checks out a set of car ramps to change the oil in his car. Wall and his wife had just returned a cider press to the library.

The Maine Tool Library allows subscribers to check out the items it stocks in its Anderson Street storeroom.

Food editor Peggy Grodinsky, intrigued by the notion of a Vitamix, borrowed one from the Maine Tool Library. Gordon Chibroski/Staff Photographer

Maine Tool Library staffer Elizabeth Tarasevich teaches Jackson Jiang how to operate the computerized checkout system. Jiang is an exchange student from China who is a sophmore at Cheverus participating in the school’s community service program.

The Maine Tool Library carries a wide variety of tools and other items.