Nature Study: Connecting Families to the Outdoors Through the Public Library

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

Public libraries continue to stay relevant in a fast-paced, highly technological world by offering new and innovative programming. The Nature Study Series at Henrico County Public Library provides environmental education programs that begin in the library, and then explore surrounding outdoor natural areas. The Nature Study Series of programs began at the Libbie Mill Area Library in June 2016, as a partnership between Henrico County Public Libraries and Gumenick Properties, the developer of the placemaking complex that surrounds Libbie Mill Library. Each Nature Study Program blends literature, nature, science, storytelling, exercise, and outdoor adventure in a manner designed to inspire curiosity in Henrico County families and to show off the practical use of the library’s collection. The four themes covered during the summer and fall of 2016 included Incredible Insects, Animal Signs, Stream Ecology, and Intro to Birdwatching. These library programs are unique in their content and format and use the resources found inside and outside of the library, including Jordan’s Branch Creek on property adjoining the library owned by the developer. From the original Nature Study Programs at Libbie Mill Library, the program expanded to include three additional libraries. The Nature Study Programs are attended by entire families while reaching the intended audience of four- to twelve-year-olds. Parents, grandparents, caregivers, and younger siblings become involved while taking part in these hands-on, immersive science programs. Families feel empowered after attending these programs to take children on walks in the natural areas adjoining their local library. They gain the ability to identify species and use field guides to research natural discoveries. The Nature Study Series will be offered annually and will continue to expand its reach and scope of natural topics through development of additional programs and offering them at more library locations.