Learn Hardcore Norwegian: Utstyr lånes gratis på biblioteket. - Equipment is borrowed for free at the library.

It’s the s-passive in Norwegian. lånes = “is/are borrowed/lent.” It’s used for general statements where no specific subject is named, much like signs or rules. Here it communicates a policy rather than what a particular person is doing.

Does lånes mean “is lent” or “is borrowed” here?

It can suggest either in isolation, because Norwegian låne covers both lend and borrow. Context resolves it:

If you mean the library lends out equipment, you’d normally say: Utstyr lånes ut gratis (på biblioteket) or active: Biblioteket låner ut utstyr gratis.
If you mean people can borrow equipment, Utstyr lånes gratis (på biblioteket) is fine and common on signs. Many learners prefer to avoid ambiguity with: Utstyr kan lånes gratis.

Can I say Utstyr kan lånes gratis på biblioteket?

Yes. Adding kan emphasizes possibility/permission: “equipment can be borrowed.” It’s very natural and often clearer for learners.

Why is there no article before utstyr?

Because utstyr (“equipment”) is usually an uncountable mass noun in Norwegian. In the indefinite, you typically use it without any article: utstyr. If you mean specific, known equipment, you’d use the definite: utstyret.