25 Unusual Things You Can Borrow From Libraries for Free

When you think of libraries, you think of the typical offerings: books, magazines, and movies. But did you know that you can borrow so much more?

Libraries are so much more than just a local place to pick up books. Many anticipate the needs of their communities and try to lend items that would benefit their users. Mine, for example, has guitars, arts and crafts equipment, and yard tools, to name a few.

We’ve scoured the internet to find the most unique offerings some libraries offer their patrons. Next time you visit yours, see if you can find any of the following.

1. Cake Pans

If you’ve got baking on the mind and don’t want to shell out the money to purchase a new cake pan, you might be able to find some at your local library.

Some libraries offer unique collections, such as character cake pans, that can be difficult to find in-store or online. It can’t hurt to see if yours has any in stock for borrowing. Just make sure you return them clean for the next person.

2. Prom Dresses

This isn’t a common find, but some libraries do offer prom dress rentals for students who may not be able to afford one. That way they can dress up and enjoy the event and not have to worry about spending a lot of money out of pocket.

Some give the dresses away as part of a community event, while others loan them.

3. Halloween Costumes

Buying a Halloween costume can be expensive, and not every family can afford to buy one. That’s why some libraries have stepped in and offered the costumes on loan.

Some of the selections are pretty elaborate, too, with hundreds of options in various sizes to choose from. Many libraries also accept donations to keep the programs going, too.

4. Musical Instruments

Have you ever wanted to try an instrument, but didn’t want to shell out the money for it until you were sure? Some libraries have a selection of instruments you can borrow.

The most common ones available tend to be stringed instruments such as guitars and ukuleles, but you may find additional options at your local library. It can’t hurt to ask.

5. Fishing Equipment

If you live near a big lake or popular fishing area, it may shock you to find out that some libraries may offer up some fishing equipment for those who don’t have their own.

Common rentals we’ve seen include loaded tackle boxes and fishing poles. At the very least, it can help you get a feel for what you like best before you go out and buy your own.

6. STEM Kits

If you have kids interested in science, STEM kits are a great way to give them some hands-on fun without spending a dime. The kits may vary and have different subjects such as coding and engineering.

You never know, you could inspire your child to develop a lifelong interest in an area they didn’t know existed.

7. Toys

Believe it or not, you can borrow toys at the library. The offerings will vary from location to location, but they tend to have a selection of those that offer sensory enrichment, such as fidget toys.

Then, there are libraries where you can find LEGO kits, robots, and even dolls for children to play with.

8. Board Games

Board games are actually pretty popular at libraries and you can find some unique ones. Checking one or more out is a great way to try them before you buy them.

You can also check out board games if you’re hosting a themed night for adults or kids and want something for a short time.

9. Passes to Local Attractions

If you’ve wanted to visit your local attractions—such as a museum or a zoo—and didn’t have the money to do so, you can borrow passes from your library.

Many of these passes also include validated or free parking, so it won’t cost you anything, and discounts at the food and souvenir shops. The passes usually have stipulations, such as how many get in for free, so be sure to ask before you go.

10. Pedometers

Walking is a great way to get fit and many personal trainers recommend getting in a specific number of steps each day. If you don’t have a pedometer, it can be difficult to determine if you’re meeting your goals.

Many libraries have pedometers for patrons to borrow. If they don’t, you can ask the location to consider carrying them.

11. Air Fryers

Air fryers are all the rage. There are many social media groups and blogs dedicated to everything you can do with them. If you don’t have one and want to see what they’re all about, see if your library has one you can borrow for a short time.

It’s definitely an unusual item, but if your library does have one, it gives you the opportunity to find out how awesome they are for yourself. Like any cooking tools, though, returning it clean is the right thing to do.

12. Sports Equipment

Some libraries have sports equipment such as hiking gear and various balls or netting to borrow. This can help cash-strapped families try before they buy.

It’s also a good way to try an activity out before committing because buying sports equipment outright can be costly. Why spend the money if you don’t have to?

13. Puzzles

If you love a challenge and go through puzzles, you can likely find them at your local library. The good thing is you can find ones for kids and adults alike.

This is a good way to keep your brain occupied without having to buy new puzzles when you finish one. The selection is also likely to grow since they tend to be a bit more popular.

14. Jumper Cables

Every car should have a set of jumper cables, because you never know when disaster will strike. However, if you don’t have some, you might be able to get them from the library.

Not every library has them, so it’s a good idea to call ahead and ask before making the trip down there.

15. Streaming Services

Streaming has taken over most of the cable industry. But did you know you can also get streaming services from your library, too?

In addition to Hoopla, where you can rent books, music, videos, and audiobooks, there’s also Kanopy. With Kanopy, you can watch indie movies, classic films, television shows, and more… all for free!

16. Light Therapy Lamps

Millions of people suffer from seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression related to seasonal changes. Light therapy lamps can help with this.

These special lamps emit a light that’s brighter than typical indoor bulbs, but not quite as bright as the sun. This is said to help with the disorder and minimize symptoms. If you want to try one out before purchasing your own.

17. Rubber Stamps

If you want to experiment with card making or paper crafts, some libraries offer rubber stamps for their patrons. Since they can be quite expensive at a craft store, depending on their size, it makes sense to borrow them where possible.

Of course, the selection—if any—will vary depending on your library’s offerings. You can also inquire ahead before you visit.

18. Video Game Systems and Games

Video game consoles are one of the priciest forms of entertainment, and sometimes, you purchase these costly systems just for them to collect dust. If you want a few hours of entertainment when you’re babysitting or have family visiting, check out your local library.

Some have older systems, mostly, but they usually tend to have a selection of games to go with them, as well. Not bad for free.

19. Framed Art

This might seem like a weird one, but some libraries have framed art for their users to borrow. There are many reasons why you might want to take advantage of this.

For example, maybe you want to stage a house you’re selling. Or perhaps, you want to impress someone you’re dating. You don’t need a justification to pretty up your walls.

20. Art Supplies and Kits

Art supplies, like many things on our list, can be costly, especially if you go through them quickly. Fortunately, many libraries have a selection that you can have for free.

They also have supplies you can borrow, such as easels, a marker or paint set, and paintbrushes. Ask your local librarian if they have any.

21. Science Equipment

If you like to do science experiments or explore scientific matter, you can likely find a wide range of equipment at the library. For example, some may carry microscopes so you or your child can get up close and personal with various materials.

Some may even carry telescopes, so you can view special events or try one out before buying your own.

22. Bike Locks

It’s not uncommon for thieves to walk off with bicycles, so it’s recommended that you lock them up when you’re not using them. While it’s cheap enough to buy one, perhaps you only need one short-term or don’t have the cash on hand to purchase just yet.

Your local library may have some in stock for you to borrow. It can’t hurt to ask.

23. Tablets

Sometimes you need technology to complete a project, or you simply want to try out a device before you invest your own money. Libraries can be a great resource for this.

Some may only allow you to use them in the building, while others will let you take them home. Make sure you check out the rental/borrowing policies before you visit.

24. Graphing Calculators

A good graphing calculator can set you back a pretty penny. Since many schools mandate them and not everyone can afford them, libraries have chipped in to help mitigate the costs.

If your child needs a graphing calculator for a specific lesson in school, they can check one out at most libraries.

25. 3D Printing Pens

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking drawing to the next level, you’ll definitely want to try 3D printing pens. Like printers, these allow you to use plastic to “draw” your creations.

This is a specialty item, and as such, they may not be widely available. You can usually check your library’s offerings on its website.