Nature Smart Library | Saint Paul Public Library

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NATURE SMART

Learning through nature at six libraries

ABOUT

The Nature Smart Library initiative provides resources, programming, and access for youth to interact with nature in their neighborhoods.

Nature Smart Library locations offer Nature Backpacks that can be checked out. Each backpack focuses on a theme, such as Birds, Weather, Winter Fun, and more.

All library locations have storytimes, and storytimes at the Nature Smart Library often include nature themes.

These locations have outdoor areas where families can learn about native plants, see pollinators in action, and more. Riverview installed a bat house in 2018, Hamline Midway Library hosted a worm farm, and Highland Park Library offers a weekly Nature Smart Trading Place.

Background

The project began as a part of the City of Saint Paul's Cities Connecting Children to Nature implementation plan.

In 2013 Sun Ray Library partnered with the Children & Nature Network to bring nature learning opportunities to Sun Ray area families. Sun Ray Library installed a pollinator prairie garden and an outdoor reading garden. They also began providing a new collection of activities that promote literacy and environmental education through fun, hands-on learning for children, youth, and families. The goal was to offer nature experiences to families who don't normally have opportunities to explore nature.

BACKPACKS

Check out a backpack and start exploring nature right outside your door!

Themes include:

Insects & spiders
Birds / Trees
Urban animals & Urban animals of the night
Camping
Winter Fun
Weather
Reptiles / Frogs
Pollinators

EXPLORE

Resources, events, and Nature Smart opportunities.

Check out a nature smart back pack

Check out one of these kid-friendly Nature Smart back packs and begin exploring the great outdoors!

tmscherbel

The Role of Libraries in Creating Nature-Rich Communities

Libraries are perfect, if unexpected, institutions to connect people to nature.

Urban Birds: Stories & Facts

Learn about the birds living among us in the city. Here are some books for all ages to enjoy.

SPPL_Kids

What is your favorite bird?

Robin

Cardinal

Chickadee

Sparrow

Blue Jay

other

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What is your favorite bird?

Robin

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Cardinal

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Chickadee

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Sparrow

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Blue Jay

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other

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Check out a book about birds

What is Climate Change?

Books about climate change for kids.

SPPL_Aura

I <3 Earth Picture Books

Picture books that support the Earth and environmentally friendly practices.

SPPL_Aura

Bat House at Riverview Library

We are crossing our fingers that we have some bats set up their summer home at Riverview Library's new Bat House this year.

tmscherbel

Get Growing!

Books for all your gardening needs

SPPL_Anna

SPPL/Bell Museum STEAM Storytime series…

Check out these great storytime titles about scientists and the scientific process.

SPPL_Pam

Explore Outdoors Saint Paul

Explore Outdoors Saint Paul is a family-friendly Meetup site offered by Saint Paul Parks & Recreation and Natural Resources.

Nature Smart

Check out Nature Smart backpacks

Check out Nature Smart backpacks from Hamline Midway, Highland Park, Merriam Park, Riverview, St Anthony Park, and Sun Ray Libraries.

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