Staunton Public Library

Donate Today!

Our Mission

The Community Gear Library is a resource in the Shenandoah Valley to increase access to the outdoors for all members of our diverse community by providing information and gear.

Our Vision

Eliminate common barriers that keep people from spending time outdoors.

Our Values

Community
Growth
Learning

What is a gear library?

A gear library is just like a regular library but for outdoor gear! We will have items such as tents, sleeping bags, camping stoves, hiking poles, and child carrier backpacks. You can borrow the equipment for a two weeks at a time. The best part is that it is free!

Where are you located?

CGL is housed in partnership with Staunton Public Library in downtown Staunton
1 Churchville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Staunton residents must attend an info session to be approved to borrow gear. Items may be checked out in-person, during Staunton Public Library operating hours.

To check an item’s availability, please call Staunton Public Library at 540-332-3902 or check the catalog.

Who runs the Community Gear Library?

The Community Gear Library was started in fall of 2022 by Harriet Flynn and Matt Little. There are also several volunteers and library staff that help the gear library run smoothly.

What kind of gear do you have?

We are not currently open in this location, but when we do, we will have individual items such as backpacking packs, hiking poles, child carriers, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and tents. Check out our detailed list here. You can also check if items are available by search in the library catalog

What do I have to do to be able to borrow gear?

To borrow gear you must be a Staunton resident and have a Staunton Public Library card (Find out how to get one here) and attend one of our information sessions. Learn about upcoming info sessions by checking the "Information Sessions" section of the page or by emailing CommunityGearLibrary@gmail.com.

What happens if gear is damaged while I am borrowing it?

You will learn more about our policies at the information session you must attend before being granted access to borrow gear library materials. All items are checked for damage after being returned and you will be charged for the replacement cost of the item or cost to fix / clean the item.

Resources

What should I pack? Check out our car camping packing list suggestions.

Harrisonburg-Rockingham Trail Guide

Information Sessions

Before borrowing gear, you must participate in one info session. We will happily set up an in person or zoom session with you so that you can borrow gear! The session will take less than 30 minutes.

To set up an info session email us at CommunityGearLibrary@gmail.com

Group Hikes

We have hiking groups for the BIPOC community, women, LGBTQ+ community, and family-focused hikes. We will list hike dates on here and on our social media as they are announced. If you have questions or are interested in a specific hiking group please email CommunityGearLibrary@gmail.com

Community Gear Library is only possible through financial support. Your tax deductible contribution will help us purchase gear and expand access to the outdoors.

501(c)3 Information

Community Gear Library operates under a Joint Plan of Work with Virginia Organizing, which is a 501(c)3 and accepts tax-deductible financial contributions on our behalf.

Virginia Organizing is officially registered with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23209. You can write to this Department for all relevant financial statements and procedures regarding the solicitation of contributions. Your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.