To become a GR Outside Gear Library Member you can either create an account online or visit us in person. Either way we ask that you attend a 15 minute in-person new member orientation during your first visit or gear pickup.

At this time, the GR Outside Gear Library is offering individual memberships to Kent county residents only. Groups and organizations must be located within Grand Rapids or work primarily with Grand Rapids residents. 

Become a member online: Visit our virtual Gear Library at the link below. Select "Create Account" at the top of the page. If you wish, you can place a reservation for up to 8 items right away. Whenever you make your first in-person visit, we will give you a new member orientation.

Create your online account

OR Become a member in person: Visit us at the GR Outside Gear Library (739 Van Raalte Dr SW) anytime during our open hours. No appointment needed. We will create your account and give you a new member orientation. You can borrow or reserve items right away during this visit. 

If you are representing an organization or group that works with kids or families, we want to help you take your work outside!

Examples of ways we can partner: 

• Group kayaking or canoeing trips
• Camping trip support (gear lending, staff training, planning support)
• Hikes
• Bike Rides (ages 13+ only at this time)
• And more! We will work with your team to plan the outing that fits your participants

To become a group member, email struby@grcity.us to setup a 30 minute consultation.

At this time, group memberships are only available for groups that operate within Grand Rapids city limits.

The GR Outside Gear Library is located in the lower level of the Roosevelt Park Lodge building (739 Van Raalte Dr SW). The library is open every week on Wednesday through Friday from 3:00 - 7:00 pm. 

Spanish speaking staff members are often on site during open hours. Contact us in advance if you would like to ensure a Spanish speaking staff member will be available. Translations for most languages can also be made available during all open hours through a call-in service.

I don't live in Grand Rapids. Can I still borrow items? 

At this time you must be a Kent County resident to start an individual or family membership. Large groups must be based within Grand Rapids city limits to utilize the Gear Library.

How long can I borrow Items? 

Items can be borrowed for up to a week at a time. Our mission is to support people in getting outside for somewhat local excursions. This limit also ensures that equipment is in and out the doors often, and therefore available for more people in the community. 

What should I expect during a membership orientation?

 At this time we are not requiring ID or proof of address. We ask that you join us for a 10-15 minute orientation that will cover everything you need to know about using the gear library. 

How is equipment cleaned? 

We ask that you do certain cleaning tasks before returning items. Staff will make this clear when you pickup your items. Staff check items after drop off to make sure they are cleaned and still working properly before the next person comes to pickup.

What if equipment gets broken or lost?

Every situation is different, and we will never charge fees for malfunctions or wear and tear. If we have to charge you for a broken or lost item, we will only ask you to pay our replacement cost of the item (usually about 60% of the item's retail cost).

We know that life gets crazy! Even if you cannot pay a fee, please bring items back and talk to us about what happened. Every issue can be resolved through open communication.