Support Us Button Widget

Five things to check out at the library (besides books)

The Chattanooga Library offers way more than just books. Here are five things without covers we think are worth checking out this season.

A sign reading "the public library" in front of various downtown buildings, with a fountain shaped like a stack of books off to the side.

Did you know that you can check out a zoo pass at all library locations?

Photo by NOOGAtoday

Table of Contents

Think libraries are just book storage units? Think again. In order to showcase just how much our local library has to offer, we’re sharing five things without covers that you can check out.

First things first — you’ll need a library card. If you’re living outside of city limits (lookin’ at you, Red Bank residents), you may still be able to get one if you:

  • Own property or a business within city limits
  • Are a Hamilton County Schools student
  • Are a college student living on campus within the city
  • Volunteer for at least 20 hours with the library each year

Local attraction passes

Cardholders are able to check out family passes to a number of local attractions ranging from the Chattanooga Zoo to the Creative Discovery Museum + Tennessee Aquarium.

You can also check out passes to attend a Chattanooga Football Club or Chattanooga Lookouts game that takes place within two weeks of the checkout date.

Gardening necessities

Stop by the first floor of the downtown library to pick up flower, vegetable, and fruit seed packets — you can check out up to three packets at a time.

Adventure gear

Make packing for your next camping trip as simple as possible. Cardholders aged 18+ can check out up to three adventure items for a one-week period, including supplies like sleeping pads, tents, and a dry bag.

Pro tip: Peruse our hiking guide to help plan your trip.

Home project help

Is this the year you finally start on that dream landscaping project? You’ll have one less excuse to push it off now that you know the Chattanooga Library has an extensive tool library full of items like ladders, saws, wheelbarrows and beyond.

Projector

Keep costs to a minimum by checking out a home video projector and planning an at-home outdoor movie screening. All you need is a sheet and some popcorn.

More from NOOGAtoday
See your neighbor’s porch become a stage at this annual festival, offering free live music.
Chattanooga has an incredibly rich history that is showcased in museums throughout the area. From the Hunter Museum of American Art to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, pay a visit to these various spots to learn all there is to know about the Scenic City.
Skip the pumpkin patch and hire these local businesses to come and spruce up your landscaping with a seasonal touch.
A new tri-state collaboration will work to conserve natural areas found in Tennessee, Georgia + Alabama.
Your favorite free bluegrass festival is almost here — check out the lineup.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Two ways to get your hands dirty for a good cause this Saturday, Sept. 27.
Whether you’re hiking, cruising, or road-tripping — these are the best ways to fall for Chattanooga this season.
We’ve made a concerted effort to orchestrate this roadmap, so you can focus on finding the artists you adore.
The city funding that’s helping build pride and stronger communities.