Radio Lending Library
Douglas County ARES maintains a lending library of amateur radio equipment, test gear, and study materials available to active members — so you can train, practice, and prepare without having to own everything yourself.
Equipment Available to Borrow
Availability varies — contact our Equipment Manager to check current inventory before requesting a loan.
HF Transceivers
Borrow an HF rig to get on the air for training, Field Day practice, or to evaluate a radio before purchasing.
VHF / UHF Radios
Handheld and mobile VHF/UHF radios available for new members learning to use the repeater network.
Portable Antennas
Dipoles, verticals, and portable mast systems for field deployment and go-kit building practice.
Power Supplies & Batteries
12V power supplies and battery packs for members setting up their first station or go-kit.
Test Equipment
SWR meters, dummy loads, and antenna analyzers for tuning and troubleshooting your station.
Study Materials
ARRL handbooks, license study guides, and ICS/FEMA training materials available for loan.
Availability changes frequently. Always contact the Equipment Manager before assuming an item is available. Donated equipment is regularly added to the library — check back often.
How to Borrow Equipment
The process is straightforward — reach out to our Equipment Manager and we'll take care of the rest.
Must Be a DC ARES Member
The lending library is available to active DC ARES members in good standing with a valid FCC Amateur Radio License.
Sign a Loan Agreement
A simple loan agreement documents the equipment condition, loan period of up to 365 days, and your responsibility for its care.
Return in Good Condition
Equipment is loaned for up to 365 days and must be returned clean and in the same condition it was borrowed.
Borrowing Guidelines
These policies ensure the lending library remains available for all members.
- Available to active DC ARES members with a valid FCC Amateur Radio License only
- Standard loan period is 365 days — extensions available with Equipment Manager approval
- Borrower is responsible for any damage beyond normal wear
- Equipment must be used for amateur radio or emergency communications purposes
- Priority given to members actively training for deployment
- All loans are documented with a signed loan agreement
Ready to Borrow?
Contact our Equipment Manager, Dick Shanahan KJ7EAW, or reach out via email to check availability and arrange a loan.