Publishing and Catalog Expertise
COOL TOOLS LAB LLC publishes carefully curated catalogs and books that spotlight exceptional tools, resources, and innovative ideas. Founded in 2013 by Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired, we are best known for 'Cool Tools: A Catalog of Possibilities' and our ongoing catalog website. We combine experience, research, and editorial depth to present collections that inspire exploration and creative solutions.
Our perspective
Our catalog focuses on tools and resources proven by real-world use, rather than fleeting trends. Each entry is selected based on utility, reliability, and the potential to improve everyday life. By highlighting durable and well-tested options, we help readers find lasting solutions—and contribute to a culture of quality over novelty.
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Our publications and catalogs are used by a diverse audience. Whether you are an educator, maker, technology enthusiast, or simply curious, our resources aim to provide practical and inspiring information to fuel projects, teaching, or daily use.
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Selecting the right tool involves comparing utility, durability, and user feedback. Our catalog highlights strengths and limitations for each entry, supporting informed decisions without sales bias or sponsorship.
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Contributing a recommendation is easy and valued. We invite all readers to submit tools or resources, emphasizing clear descriptions and personal experience whenever possible to support the cataloging process.
01 / What we do
Our core activities center on researching, curating, compiling, and publishing information about useful tools—from physical gadgets to digital resources. We create publications and maintain an evolving online catalog, supporting a diverse audience seeking reliable recommendations and thoughtful coverage.
COOL TOOLS LAB LLC specializes in publishing books that collect and review practical tools and resources, with our flagship publication, 'Cool Tools: A Catalog of Possibilities.' We develop, edit, and produce high-quality printed works that serve as reference guides for makers, innovators, educators, and curious minds. Our process emphasizes accuracy, usability, and a passion for utility.
Discuss your idea ↗
Beyond books, we curate and release catalogs focused on innovative tools, both in print and online. Each catalog is carefully researched and reviewed, bringing together tested recommendations and insightful commentary. Our cataloging approach promotes discovery and thoughtful consideration of tools that solve real-world problems.
Discuss your idea ↗
Our website serves as an ever-growing, living catalog of tools and resources. We publish regular updates, user insights, and fresh tool reviews, maintaining a trusted source for those searching for new solutions. Readers benefit from clear editorial standards and a transparent review process, helping them navigate a constantly evolving landscape.
Discuss your idea ↗We facilitate collaborative efforts, seeking input from our audience and contributors worldwide. By gathering user recommendations and expert commentary, we enhance the breadth and depth of our catalogs. Our collaborative process supports the creation of well-rounded, community-driven content that reflects broad, real-world experience.
Discuss your idea ↗
02 / About us
COOL TOOLS LAB LLC was founded in 2013 by Kevin Kelly, an influential figure in technology journalism and co-founder of Wired magazine. The company pursued a mission to assemble and share collections of tools and resources that fuel creativity, efficiency, and hands-on problem-solving for all ages.
Over the years, the company has published influential books and maintained an active online presence, continually evolving to showcase discovery and practical knowledge. Our team, led by a passion for intelligent curation, values thorough research and independent assessment.
COOL TOOLS LAB LLC remains committed to empowering individuals and communities by offering reliable, experience-driven recommendations and facilitating discussions about versatile tools and methods. We welcome readers with curiosity, a maker spirit, or simply an appetite for practical wisdom.
Start a conversation ↗03 / How to get started
Explore our catalog of books or browse the online collection to discover tools and resources tailored to a breadth of interests and needs. Each entry is accompanied by detailed commentary and user insights to inform your search.
If you have a tool, resource, or idea to recommend, contact us through our website or by email. Our editorial team welcomes suggestions from individuals, organizations, and readers who want to share valuable discoveries or feedback for potential inclusion in upcoming releases.
Reach out with questions about our publications, requests for information, or collaborative content possibilities. We are open to discussing tailored catalogue projects, partnerships, and initiatives that align with our mission of sharing useful tools.
04 / A little more detail
We publish curated catalogs and reference books focusing on tools, devices, and resources that add value in daily life, education, and technical fields. This includes physical books, as well as an extensive and frequently updated online catalog.
Anyone can propose a new tool or idea by contacting us through email or our web portal. Please describe the tool, its purpose, and your reasons for recommending it—our team reviews all submissions as part of our curation process.
Yes, we consider collaborative projects or partnerships that align with our mission. If you have a cataloging idea, wish to contribute editorially, or would like to propose a special project, we encourage you to reach out and discuss the possibilities.
Our online catalog is updated regularly with new reviews and user contributions. Print releases, such as the main Cool Tools book, are updated at longer intervals as determined by editorial review and available material.
We rely on a combination of direct testing, user reviews, and independent expert input. All recommendations are chosen for their practicality, reliability, and utility, with transparency about the editorial process for each tool or resource.
Our online catalog is accessible worldwide. For physical books, availability depends on distribution partners and local retailers. Contact us to learn about options for obtaining our publications in your region.
05 / Contact us
Have questions about our books, online catalog, or how to contribute? Contact COOL TOOLS LAB LLC to discuss opportunities, submit suggestions, or request information about our publishing activities. Your inquiry is welcome, whether you are a reader, educator, maker, or fellow publisher.
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