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 book fountain 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 old book storage units? Think again. In order to showcase just how much our local library has to offer, we’re sharing five things besides books you can check out.

First things first — you’ll need a library card. If you’re technically 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 a visit pass to Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center — good for one carload — once per year (when available) at the downtown location.

All library locations also offer Chattanooga Zoo, and now, Hunter Museum, passes on a first come, first serve basis. Hunter passes are good for one week and cover entry for two adults, while Chattanooga Zoo passes are good for one week and cover two adults + four children.

Gardening necessities

Plan your spring garden by picking up seasonal seed packets at the South Chattanooga + downtown library locations. You can also check out gardening tools like bulb planters, pruning shears, and digging shovels from the downtown location’s tool library.

Bicycle tool kit

Get your bike back in gear for rides along the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway, Riverwalk, and Enterprise South Nature Park on sunny winter days with a bicycle tool kit available for checkout at the downtown library.

Home video projector

There’s nothing like watching a movie projected on a huge sheet beside an outdoor fire, or cozied up in a homemade fort on cold winter days. The downtown library has two home video projectors available for checkout.

News clippings

Pick a topic you’re interested in and read through fascinating old newspaper clippings. The downtown library’s history staff is incredibly helpful + knowledgeable.

Oh, you want more? Make a request online that the library add something to its lineup.

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