The federal government has long supported book libraries and education. In order to make more resources more accessible and more efficiently used, the federal government should start a program to encourage tool lending libraries. An example is in Berkeley. Such institutions should make available shared resources like ladders, tools, and equipment. Many of these things are the sort of thing that should be available to everyone, but are not used frequently, and could benefit from sharing.
This allows for these items to be borrowed (perhaps with I'd and deposit) instead of being rented. This also provides a place for people with skills and experience in various areas to share with those who may be interested.