Membership Overview

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 an in-person new member orientation during your first visit or gear pickup. The new-member orientation takes about 15 minutes and will cover library policies, a facility tour, and our lending process. At this time, the GR Outside Gear Library is offering individual and family memberships to Kent County residents only. 

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

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 a large group like a nonprofit, business, or classroom, we have a membership just for you! Group memberships have larger gear limits, and a slightly longer registration process to help us understand your needs. At this time, group memberships are only available for groups that operate within Grand Rapids city limits.

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

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 Tuesday 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 check items after drop off to make sure they are cleaned and still working properly before the next person comes to pickup. There are certain items you will be asked not to clean. Staff will make this clear when you pickup your items. 

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.