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.