Reading Time: 16 minutes 28 Things Most Retirees Don’t Realize They Can Get Free From The Library
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Did you know that your local library is way more than just a place to grab books? These days, libraries have become amazing community hubs where you can find all sorts of useful items to borrow and services to use. This is fantastic news for retirees who are keeping a close eye on their budgets.
Gone are the days when libraries only offered free books and magazines. Now, they’ve expanded their services to include a wide range of household supplies that you can borrow for free and helpful services that can make your life easier.
In this article, I’ll share 28 household supplies you might be surprised to find at your library. I’ll also give you some helpful tips on how to make the most of these borrowing services.
Many of these can be found on a library’s website. It’s usually in a section called “Library of Things” or something similar.
So, let’s jump in and see how you can save money while still getting things done around the house!
Table of Contents
1. Gardening Tools
If you love spending time in your garden but don’t want to shell out for expensive tools, your local library might have just what you need. Many libraries now offer a variety of gardening tools like trowels, pruners, and rakes.
This is perfect for keeping your garden in tip-top shape without breaking the bank. Imagine being able to tackle that overgrown hedge or plant a new flower bed without having to invest in tools you’ll only use a few times a year.
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2. Power Tools
Got a home improvement project in mind? Your library might be able to help with that too. Some libraries now loan out power tools like drills, saws, and sanders. This can be a real game-changer for those occasional DIY projects around the house.
Instead of spending a small fortune on tools you might only use once or twice, you can simply borrow what you need. It’s perfect for fixing that wobbly chair, hanging some new shelves, or tackling any other home repairs that come up.
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3. Kitchen Appliances
Ever wanted to try out a fancy kitchen gadget but weren’t sure if it was worth the investment? Some libraries now loan out kitchen appliances like blenders, bread machines, and food processors.
This gives you the chance to test out new equipment before deciding if you want to buy your own. You could whip up a smoothie, bake fresh bread, or try out that complicated recipe you’ve been eyeing, all without cluttering up your kitchen with appliances you might rarely use.
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4. Sewing Machines
If you enjoy sewing or want to give it a try, check if your library has sewing machines available. This can be a fantastic way to dip your toes into a new hobby or to tackle clothing repairs without investing in your own machine.
You could mend a torn seam, hem some pants, or even start a quilting project. It’s a fun and practical skill that can help you save money on clothing alterations and repairs.
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5. Crafting Supplies
For all the creative retirees out there, libraries often have a variety of crafting supplies available to borrow. This might include things like knitting needles, crochet hooks, and scrapbooking materials.
It’s a great way to try out new hobbies or work on projects without having to buy all the supplies upfront. You could knit a scarf, crochet a blanket, or create a beautiful scrapbook of family memories, all using borrowed supplies.
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6. Musical Instruments
Have you always dreamed of learning to play an instrument? Some libraries offer musical instruments like guitars, keyboards, and violins for loan. This is a fantastic opportunity to try out different instruments and see what you enjoy playing.
You could strum a guitar, tickle the ivories, or learn to play a violin concerto. It’s never too late to discover your inner musician, and borrowing instruments is a great way to start without a big financial commitment.
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7. Sports Equipment
Staying active is important at any age, and your library might be able to help with that too. Some libraries loan out sports equipment like tennis rackets, basketballs, or even golf clubs. This gives you the chance to try out new sports or enjoy your favorites without buying all the gear.
You could hit the tennis courts, shoot some hoops, or practice your golf swing, all with borrowed equipment. It’s a great way to stay fit and have fun without spending a lot of money.
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8. Baking Supplies
Planning a special celebration or just want to try out a new recipe? Your library might have you covered. Some libraries offer specialty baking pans, cookie cutters, and other baking tools for loan.
This means you can bake a heart-shaped cake for Valentine’s Day or make themed cookies for a holiday party, all without having to buy new baking gear.
Related: No-Fuss Baking: Simple Bread Recipes for Every Taste and Diet
9. Board Games and Puzzles
Libraries often stock a selection of board games and puzzles for patrons to borrow. This opens up endless possibilities for entertainment, especially on rainy days or when family visits.
You can host a game night with friends, challenge your grandkids to a round of Monopoly, or spend a quiet afternoon working on a jigsaw puzzle. It’s a budget-friendly way to have fun and keep your mind sharp without filling your shelves with games you might only play occasionally.
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10. Technology Gadgets
Many libraries now loan out various technology gadgets, keeping up with the digital age. You might find e-readers, tablets, or even projectors available to borrow. This gives you the chance to try out new devices before deciding to buy your own.
You could read e-books on a Kindle, browse the internet on a tablet, or host a movie night with a borrowed projector. It’s a great way to stay connected with technology without the hefty price tag of purchasing new devices.
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11. Event Supplies
Planning a family gathering or community event? Your library might have you covered. Some libraries offer event supplies like folding tables, chairs, and even decorations for loan. This can significantly cut down on party costs and storage issues.
You could set up a beautiful buffet table, provide comfortable seating for guests, or add festive touches to your space, all with borrowed items. It’s a smart way to host memorable events without breaking the bank.
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12. Home Maintenance Tools
For those small home repair jobs, your library might be an unexpected source of help. Many libraries provide access to tools like ladders, paint rollers, and basic toolkits. This can be a real lifesaver for occasional fix-it tasks around the house.
You could touch up the paint in your living room, clean out your gutters, or tackle minor repairs, all using borrowed tools. It’s a practical way to maintain your home without investing in tools you might rarely use.
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13. Outdoor Gear
Nature enthusiasts will be pleased to know that some libraries loan out outdoor gear. This might include items like camping equipment, binoculars, or fishing rods. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors without investing in expensive gear.
You could go bird watching with borrowed binoculars, set up camp with loaned tents, or try your hand at fishing with a borrowed rod. It’s a budget-friendly way to connect with nature and try new outdoor activities.
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14. Cleaning Equipment
When it’s time for a deep clean, your library might have just what you need. Some libraries offer cleaning equipment like carpet cleaners or steam mops for loan. This allows you to give your home a thorough cleaning without purchasing expensive equipment.
You could deodorize your carpets, sanitize your floors, or tackle tough cleaning jobs, all with borrowed tools. It’s a great way to keep your home sparkling clean without the expense of buying specialized cleaning equipment.
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15. Children’s Toys
Grandparents will appreciate that many libraries loan out children’s toys. This is perfect for when the grandkids come to visit. You can keep them entertained with new and exciting toys without filling your house with items they’ll quickly outgrow.
You might borrow educational toys, outdoor play equipment, or board games designed for kids. It’s a smart way to keep the little ones happy and engaged during their visits without overspending on toys.
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16. Health and Wellness Equipment
Taking care of your health is important, and your library might be able to help. Some libraries offer health and wellness equipment like yoga mats, exercise bands, or even blood pressure monitors for loan.
This allows you to try out different fitness routines or monitor your health without a big financial commitment. You could start a yoga practice, try strength training with resistance bands, or keep track of your blood pressure at home.
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17. Educational Kits
For lifelong learners, many libraries offer educational kits for loan. These might include science experiment sets, language learning materials, or craft project kits. It’s a fantastic way to keep learning and growing without investing in expensive educational materials.
You could make fun science experiments, start learning a new language, or try out a new craft, all with borrowed materials. It’s perfect for personal enrichment or for sharing educational experiences with grandchildren.
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18. Travel Accessories
Planning a trip? Your library might have useful travel items available for loan. This could include things like luggage scales, travel adapters, or guidebooks. Borrowing these items can make your travel planning easier and more affordable.
You could weigh your luggage before heading to the airport, ensure you have the right power adapters for your destination, or research your travel spots with up-to-date guidebooks. It’s a smart way to prepare for your adventures without buying items you might only use occasionally.
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19. Fresh Produce
Some libraries have teamed up with local farms and food banks to offer fresh produce to their members. This program provides nutritious options for retirees who might not have easy access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
You can pick up seasonal produce right at your local library, supporting local farmers and enjoying healthy meals without the high costs of specialty grocery stores.
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20. Telescopes
Stargazing becomes an accessible hobby thanks to libraries that loan out telescopes. This allows retirees to explore the night sky and enjoy astronomy without investing in expensive equipment.
You can borrow a telescope for a special celestial event or simply to spend a peaceful evening observing the stars and planets in your backyard.
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21. Notary Services
Many libraries now offer free or low-cost notary services. This makes it convenient for retirees to get important documents notarized without seeking out a paid service.
You can have your legal papers, financial documents, or other official forms notarized right at your local library, saving both time and money.
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22. Tax Preparation Assistance
During tax season, libraries often provide access to tax preparation help. This includes assistance by trained volunteers who can guide you through the complexities of filing your taxes.
It’s a valuable service that can help retirees navigate tax laws and ensure they’re filing correctly without the expense of hiring a professional tax preparer.
Related: What Taxes Do You Need To Pay On Your Real Estate Investment?
23. Social Worker Consultations
Some libraries go above and beyond by offering sessions with social workers. These professionals can provide guidance on various issues like healthcare, housing, and benefits.
It’s a valuable resource for getting help with complex systems and ensuring you’re aware of all the support available to you.
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24. Small Business Coaching
For retirees considering a second career or starting a small business, some libraries offer coaching and resources. You can get advice on business planning, marketing strategies, and other aspects of entrepreneurship.
This support can be invaluable for those looking to turn a hobby into a business or start a new venture in retirement.
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25. WiFi Hotspots
Staying connected is important, and some libraries now loan out WiFi hotspots. This service is particularly useful for retirees who may not have reliable internet access at home.
You can borrow a hotspot to stay connected while traveling, or use it at home to check emails, video chat with family, or browse the internet.
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26. Laptop Computers
Many libraries lend out laptop computers, providing access to technology for various needs. You can use a borrowed laptop for personal tasks, job searches, or staying in touch with loved ones.
This service is especially helpful for those who don’t own a computer or need a temporary replacement.
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27. Blood Pressure Kits
Monitoring your health at home becomes easier with blood pressure kits available for loan at some libraries. You can keep track of your blood pressure regularly without needing to purchase medical equipment.
Regular blood pressure checks can help you stay on top of your health and provide valuable information for your doctor.
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28. Free Printing Services
Many libraries offer free or low-cost printing services. This is particularly useful for retirees who may not have a printer at home.
You can print out important documents, forms, or even cherished photos without the need for your own printer. It’s a convenient service that can save you money on ink and paper costs.
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Tips for Borrowing from Your Library
Now that you know about all these amazing items you can borrow, let’s talk about how to make the most of your library’s borrowing services. These tips will help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Check Availability Online
First, it’s a good idea to check what’s available online before you head to the library. Many libraries have websites where you can see their current inventory.
This saves you time and ensures you don’t make a trip for nothing. Plus, you might discover items you didn’t even know were available!
Reserve in Advance
Next, think about reserving items in advance, especially if you need something for a specific date. For example, if you’re planning a party and want to borrow some event supplies, reserving them ahead of time guarantees they’ll be there when you need them.
Most libraries allow you to place holds online or by phone.
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Follow Usage Guidelines
When you borrow items, particularly electronics or power tools, make sure to follow any usage guidelines provided. These rules are there to keep the items in good condition for everyone to use.
If you’re not sure how to use something, don’t hesitate to ask a librarian for help. They’re usually happy to give you a quick tutorial.
Know the Replacement Policy
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the library’s policies on lost or damaged items. Accidents happen, and it’s better to know upfront what your responsibilities are. This can help you avoid any unexpected costs or issues down the line.
Take Advantage of Workshops
Many libraries offer workshops or classes on how to use certain items they loan out. These can be incredibly helpful, especially for things like power tools or new technology.
Attending these sessions can help you get the most out of the items you borrow and might even teach you some new skills.
Save Big by Borrowing
Who knew our local libraries had so much to offer? This opens up a world of possibilities for retirees looking to save money, try new things, and keep life exciting without breaking the bank.
Next time you’re tempted to buy something you’ll only use occasionally, remember your library might have it. You’ll save money, reduce clutter, and get to experiment with all sorts of new things.
So go on, pay your library a visit. You’ll be amazed at how much you can do, learn, and enjoy with your local library as your partner in retirement adventures.
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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.
