Nature Smart Libraries
Texas Children in Nature Network defines a Nature Smart Library through its ability to engage community members in nature
What are Nature Smart Libraries
Initiative to work with libraires across the state to create outdoor play and exploration spaces in their communities. Spaces can include everything from backpacks to StoryWalks, gardens, and nature play areas. As an organization, we place a high importance on these spaces, incorporating many natural elements, including native plants and trees.
Why Nature Smart Libraries
Libraries are often trusted community hubs in their cities and towns. By increasing nature opportunities in and around libraries, we can make an impact in the larger community. Nature Smart Libraries commit to creating nature experience with their patrons through a variety of programs.
Programs and Ways Libraries can incorporate nature?
- Library Explorer Adventure Packs (LEAP)
- StoryWalks
- Nature Nooks and gardens
- Nature Programming
How TCiNN is Supporting The Work
Creation and support of LEAP packs for libraries across the state - we currently have 212 backpacks out and the number grows annually
Nature Smart Library State Cohort Calls
Technical Assistance for Libraries
Nature Space Design Support
Workshops and trainings for Library Staff
Library Explorer Adventure Packs
Texas Children in Nature Network in partnership with conservation partners from across the state have created backpacks for nature exploration. These packs are available for libraries to chekc out to their patrons. Packs come in a variety of themes and include many materials to explore the outdoors.
These packs feature various themes, all designed with input from local libraries. The packs come filled with nature books and materials needed for outdoor exploration, as well as health information on how to stay safe while engaging in outdoor activities.
Pack Themes
- Backyard Bayou
- Beachcombing
- Birds & Birding
- Butterflies & Insects
- Cooking from the Garden
- Fish & Fishing
- Gardening
- Native Plants
- Outdoor Skills
- Pollinators
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- River Exploration
- Rocks & Fossils
- Stargazing
- Wildlife Around You - tailored to your region
- Other packs can be developed with our staff
Currently, Texas Children in Nature Network is seeking funding to extend this program free of cost to more libraries across the state. However, your library can self-fund LEAP packs at your library:
LEAP Cost
- Year 1:
- $1000 base fee per library - includes 20 hours of Technical Assistance from Texas Children in Nature Network staff to implement LEAP at your library, a kickoff event with Texas Children in Nature Network, and a Texas Children in Nature Network organizational membership
- $250 per pack - includes all materials for the packs
- Year 2 and Beyond - $500
- Includes membership renewal
- Replacement items as needed
LEAP Library Locations
StoryWalks
Story books are added to signage along a path near a library or nature spot to engage children and families in nature spaces and literacy. TCiNN provides Technical Assistance to libraries interested in adding StoryWalks to their grounds.
Check out this great webinar about StoryWalks: https://youtu.be/DV_UdOMYglo?si=1I3vqr9F1VzCTsOL
Improvement of Outdoor Space
Texas Children in Nature Network staff can work with local libraries to improve their outdoor space. To learn more contact Sarah
