Who can use the Gear Library?
Memberships are available for everyone age 18 and up. As a member, you may opt to allow children or other minors in your family to checkout equipment under your name. Organizations, teachers, and non profits are also welcome.
We focus our efforts on specific neighborhoods within Grand Rapids, particularly where residents have faced disproportionate social or economic barriers to the outdoors. If you'd like to see this work continue, please consider making a donation when you borrow gear. We suggest a $10 donation for use of games, picnic supplies, and team sports gear. For camping gear and clothing, we suggest a donation of $25.
How do I borrow gear?
As an individual:
- Before borrowing gear, please come to the gear library for a membership orientation. If you'd like to get a head start, create a free online account before coming in.
- After you become a member, you can check out available gear on the spot, or reserve gear in advance. You'll be given instructions to do this during your membership orientation.
For large groups, organizations, nonprofits, etc:
We’d love to talk more and see if we can support you! To discuss further, contact staff at gearlibrary@grcity.us . We can't guarantee gear availability for every group, and a group fee may be charged.
Do I need to bring anything to my membership orientation?
There are no fee's for residents to borrow gear. Please bring one proof of ID, but we will not keep these documents after you show them to us. Proof of ID can be done with a passport, ID, drivers license, student ID, or piece of mail.
Is the gear library really free?
Yes! We do not charge deposits or late fees. Please respect equipment from the library so that it can be used by more people.
How do I make a donation.
Equipment donations can be made without notice at the gear library during open hours. If you have questions about what we need or accept, feel free to shoot us an email in advance.
Financial donations can be made online by clicking here.
Is equipment cleaned in between uses?
Yes it is! We have laundry facilities and processes in place to clean items in between uses. Items are also checked in between uses to ensure they function properly.