Oh, the things you can borrow from today’s libraries

Your library card might be the most overlooked money-saver in your wallet. Beyond books and movies, many libraries let you check out all kinds of useful (and fun!) items for free. Your community may also have various “libraries of things” for borrowing tools, sports equipment, and much more. They may be part of your public library system or a new venture started by a group of people who enjoy sharing.

Give it a try. You might be surprised by what you find. We certainly were!

Free passes to local attractions

Many libraries offer free or discounted passes to museums, zoos, parks, botanical gardens, and much more. A quick call or visit to your library’s website can unlock hours of free fun for you and your family.

For example, New York library cardholders can “borrow” free admission for up to four people to over 100 world-class cultural destinations. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, library patrons can enjoy the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, and, if tickets are available, a symphony concert or roller derby match—all for free. Michigan library cards also provide free or discounted access to hundreds of parks and activities throughout the state.

Pro tip: Passes are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis, and high-demand tickets disappear quickly. Contact your local branch to learn how their system works.

Unusual items you didn’t know you could borrow

Need a cake pan shaped like a unicorn? A metal detector? Tarot cards? Check the library. Here are some more examples of what you might find:

• Art prints: Rotate artwork in your home without spending a dime, and the prints are usually not due for several months.

• Craft tools: Borrow big, small, and unique tools for sewing, embroidering, crocheting, woodworking, painting, and printing.

• Fun and games: Host a game night. Keep the kids busy. Try before you buy. Whatever your motivation, you can save by borrowing board games, video games, puzzles, puppets, toys, and yard games.

• Home and yard tools: Libraries and libraries of things offer a wide range of tools, including lawn mowers, power washers, leaf blowers, steam cleaners, and power tools. The Local Tools Network is a good place to start.

Seeds and gardening tools

Plant a garden on a budget! Some libraries and garden groups offer free vegetable, herb, and flower seeds—plus garden tools you can borrow. Return the tools, keep the seeds, and, if you can, donate seeds and cuttings to support future gardeners.

Outdoor and sports gear

Don’t let cost keep you and your family from enjoying the great outdoors. While some libraries lend sports and camping gear, you may find more options through organizations and clubs. For hiking and camping, try the Outdoors Empowered Network, Families in Nature, and the Community Gear Library. For sports, check with the local parks department or recreation center. Some neighborhoods have little free sports libraries where you can pick up and donate gently used gear.

And so much more

This list only scratches the surface. Some libraries also lend kitchen gadgets, musical instruments, medical gear, and even science kits for kids. So before you buy something new—whether it costs dollars or dimes—see if you can borrow it instead. A quick search for the item and “library of things” might lead to a free loaner. And every item you borrow means more money to put toward your savings goals.