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WorkSpace

The OTL WorkSpace is our effort to provide a safe, approachable workspace for all to build their next project. It features a series of benches equipped with a solid collection of shop tools and also has a number of larger power tools which can be used at any of the benches.

Those looking to use the OTL WorkSpace will need to purchase a separate daily or monthly pass to access the space. Passes are available at the tool library only and commence the day of purchase.

Costs are $24.50 for a daily pass and $98 for a monthly pass (plus tax).

Workshops & Workspaces

The OTL WorkSpace is currently open Fridays 6-9pm and Saturdays 10 am-1 pm and is supervised by a WorkSpace Monitor. All users must take our WorkSpace 101 course and/or WorkSpace 201 and follow good safety practices, including the use of protective equipment. The courses give your access to different tools and is offered regularly. You can get tickets via Eventbrite.

Each bench at the OTL WorkSpace has a number of essential hand tools, like screwdrivers, a hammer, pliers and a drill; measuring and marking tools like a combination square, tape measure and pencil; as well as eyewear and hearing protection.

The following tools are available to be used at any workbench: band saw, miter saw, and scroll saw. There are also a SawStop table saw, router, jointer, and planer available, but they will require our WorkSpace 201 course. Other tools can be borrowed (by members) from the OTL and used in the WorkSpace.

For the health and safety of everyone in our OTL family, while it is no longer mandatory, we encourage our volunteers, instructors, workshop participants and WorkSpace users to follow recommended vaccine schedules and relevant public health advice, and especially avoid visiting the OTL if you are feeling unwell.

Shop Nights & Safety Training

WorkSpace FAQ

Inside the Ottawa Tool Library at 877A Boyd Avenue in Ottawa. Click here to find us.

For the moment, it is open on Friday from 6-9pm and Saturdays from 10am-1pm. As we continue to build our volunteer team, we’ll determine when we can expand the hours of the WorkSpace.

Definitely. As demand increases or our costs change, we may need to adjust our fees. We will communicate any changes well in advance.

No, but you need to be a member to borrow any tools from the OTL that are not already in the WorkSpace.

Yes. As the WorkSpace gets busier, this ensures that we have space for you but also that the tools you want to use are available (and not everyone is trying to use the planer). It also permits us to ask WorkSpace monitors to come in when we know that there will be clients in the space. To reserve your spot, please complete the form above.

No (sorry!). Our WorkSpace Monitors can give advice to ensure you’re safely using the appropriate tool. However, their role is to ensure the safe use of the space for all users and cannot divert their attention to help build a specific project.

No, you’ll need to bring your project and materials with you and take them when you leave.

We want you to be safe in our WorkSpace and thus our safety courses are mandatory for the tools you intend to use. BONUS: with each safety course you will get a FREE one day pass to use our space.

WorkSpace 101 covers safe use of the band saw, miter saw, scroll saw, and drill press, whereas our WorkSpace 201 covers the table saw, router, jointer, and planer. These tools are only available to those who have taken our corresponding course. You can find upcoming courses and book tickets via Eventbrite.

Yes, everyone must wear appropriate personal protective equipment at all times. It will be provided but you can always bring your own.

Book a spot in the WorkSpace

To create a WorkSpace booking, first pick an available date and time below, then add your contact details and submit. If a date is displayed in pink, it is already fully booked.

Having trouble? You’ll need to select the date and time before providing other reservation details. Dates in green are open, those in red are fully booked.

Please make your request at least 24 hours in advance, or we may be unable to accommodate your request.

You will receive an email with your pending reservation, and a subsequent email once your reservation is confirmed.

** Users accept the following conditions to use the OTL Workspace:

  • Users need an OTL membership with WorkSpace Access or to purchase a WorkSpace Pass
  • Certain tools require users to have taken WorkSpace 101 (band saw, miter saw, scroll saw, and drill press) and WorkSpace 201 (table saw, router, jointer, and planer)
  • On Saturdays only: please use street parking and do not park anywhere directly along the building

Have questions? Please feel free to contact us.