Grand Rapids Free Gear Library Set to Close Its Doors

For the last few years, if you needed a piece of sports equipment, you had an easy solution to check out or borrow gear from the City of Grand Rapids. Now, the city's beloved Gear Library will only be available for a few more months according to a statement from GR Outside.

According to a recent announcement from the Parks and Recreation Department, this valuable service will end on December 31, 2024, marking the conclusion of a program that has served our community since 2021.

The Gear Library, a free service provided by GR Outside, has been a cornerstone for outdoor enthusiasts in Grand Rapids. Offering everything from fishing and camping gear to kayaks and sleds, it allowed residents to explore Michigan’s great outdoors without breaking the bank. The news of its closure has left many residents feeling disappointed, especially those who have come to rely on the service for their family outings and adventures.

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GR Outside stated that beginning January 1, 2025, the Gear Library will shift its focus exclusively to youth-serving groups. While this is a positive development for organized youth programs, it leaves individual members and families without this convenient resource. Effective immediately, no new individual or family memberships will be accepted, and current members will still be able to enjoy the Gear Library until the end of the year.

For those who have relied on the Gear Library, this change feels like the end of an era. While kayaking trips, $5 kayak rentals, sledding, and other public events will continue to be available through the Parks and Recreation Department, the loss of this service will undoubtedly leave a gap in our community.

As we bid farewell to the Gear Library, let’s make the most of it while we still can. If you’re a member, be sure to take advantage of this resource before it’s too late. And for those involved in youth-serving organizations, GR Outside is still eager to help your group access outdoor equipment in the future.