#NatureExplorerBackpacks

"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.

We currently offer:

- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classes

For more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].

Library List

Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, Buckfield

Nature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."

Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning

#LewistonID library to lend outdoor activity kits thanks to new grant

By James Dawson
Published November 11, 2024

"Library users in the Lewiston area will soon have the chance to try gold panning, #birdwatching and other outdoor activities free of charge.

The #LewistonCityLibrary recently won a grant from the National Forest Community Recreation Fund to put together outdoor activity kits its users can check out starting next month. The Idaho Capital Sun first reported this story.

'We’re excited to partner with the Lewiston City Library to support new ways for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with public lands, learn about conservation, and inspire them to take an active role in #stewardship,' said Angela Edwards, a partnership coordinator with the #NezPerceClearwater #NationalForests.

Kits include equipment needed for gold panning, birdwatching, #hiking and #camping. A #DutchOven will also be available for those wanting to experience cooking outdoors.

Those are on top of the fishing poles the library has loaned out for years, according to library director Lynn Johnson.

'It seemed like a good way for us to offer things for the public that are a little out of the ordinary,' Johnson said in a press release.

'Libraries are about opportunity. Whether you have limited means or lots of access and wealth, we want to help people of all means try something out,' she said.

These new outdoor activity kits will be available to check out by those with a Valnet library card, which includes a group of 48 school and public libraries in north central Idaho stretching from Elk City to Potlatch."

Source:
https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2024-11-11/lewiston-library-outdoor-kits

#Idaho #LibrariesRule! #libraryOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #OutdoorAdventureKits #SpendTimeInNature #BorrowingBeyondBooks #OutdoorLearning #NatureBasedLearning

#RocklandME - #NatureBackpacks for outdoor fun and learning available to check out from #RocklandPublicLibrary

Sun, 03/20/2022

ROCKLAND — "Rockland Public Library announces a new item now available for circulation: #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorerBackpacks.

'Check out a backpack and a world of wildlife will open up for you and your family,' said the Library, in a news release.

Each pack has a custom-made user’s guide that walks you through each item in the backpack and provides #activities, #games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for families on how to enjoy #nature, nature journal templates, simple activity ideas, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with #wildlife.

'Now, your outdoor time can become a science-based experience that fosters #EnvironmentalLiteracy,' said RPL.

Available to Rockland Library cardholders only.

The backpacks have seasonal themes and right now, three are available to borrow

Birds Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Binoculars
- Birds of Maine checklist
- Bird photo cards
- Colored pencils
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide

Wildlife Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Tracks rubber stamps
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box
- Lapboard and paper
- User’s guide

Plants Backpack contains:
- Field guides and books
- Sorting sheet
- Colored pencils
- Magnifying glass and specimen box."

Source:
https://www.penbaypilot.com/article/nature-backpacks-outdoor-fun-and-learning-available-check-out-rockland-public-library/158220

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #AdventureBackpacks #LibrariesRule! #MaineLibraries #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning

#OgunquitME - New #NatureAdventureBackpacks

"Thanks to a grant from the Maine State Library and their Maine Public Library Fund we have 6 new backpacks with the following themes: #Birding, #NatureHikes and #Tidepooling / Rocks of the Marginal Way. Each theme has 2 backpacks; one backpack containing contents for adults and one backpack with more child-friendly contents.

Here are the new Birding Packs!"

Source:
https://www.facebook.com/ogunquitmemoriallibrary/posts/pfbid02VzuvVobjUx8fYRge8tfKaQKi8f7ciqkQR2fJdQ7jMypsUi1tixjiLHzMvcmw8VbAl

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #PlantIdentification

#AugustaME - Thanks to the generous support of The Friends of #LithgowLibrary, we now have a #LibraryOfThings!

"A Library of Things allows you to borrow non-traditional library items such as snowshoes or a sewing machine. More than a 'try before you buy' opportunity, the Library of Things aligns with the mission of our library — to offer a collection of materials that meets the needs, interests, and abilities of our diverse #community. A Library of Things promotes sharing with community members, #sustainability, and trying new things. We hope you enjoy!

Interested in donating? Please let us know what you have in mind and we will see if we are able to add it to our collection. Thank you!

Library of Things Policies

- Eligibility: You must be a Lithgow cardholder for at least 3 months and in good standing (current card, no outstanding fees, etc.). Some Library of Things items are strictly limited to Adults only (18+).
- Availability: The Library of Things items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Items may not be reserved & are not available through interlibrary loan.
- Borrowing: You may borrow 5 Library of Things item at a time for up-to two weeks. Items may not be renewed.
- Returning: Library of Things items should be returned in-person only (not in the drop box.) Items should be returned on-time and as a complete kit (all parts included.) Failure to follow the return policy may lead to repair/replacement cost and/or impact borrowing privileges.
- Loss or damage: The card holder is responsible for any repair or replacement due to loss or damage. The card holder is responsible for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur from use of equipment."

Learn more:
https://www.lithgowlibrary.org/library-of-things/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #BorrowingBeyondBooks #CircularEconomy #BorrowDontBuy

#ChinaME: Does your town have a #SeedLibrary

by Jude Hsiang
April 23, 2025

"Does your town have a Seed Library? Seed Libraries are found all over the world, enabling gardeners to save money and try new types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers."

Read more:
https://townline.org/china-does-your-town-have-a-seed-library/

#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine

#CamdenME - Check-Out Seeds

"Would you like to take some seeds from the #SeedLibrary for your own garden? Follow the steps below to check out the seeds you want to take!"

FMI:
https://www.librarycamden.org/seedlibrary/

#SolarPunkSunday #BorrowDontBuy #SeedLibraries #SeedExchange #GrowYourOwn #Gardening #Maine

#Maine - Want to try something new in the new year? Check out a ‘library of things’

#Libraries are expanding their offerings beyond books and audiotapes, broadening the potential pursuits of patrons.

by Sophie Burchell, January 2, 2026

CUMBERLAND — "If your New Year’s resolution is to try a new hobby — cooking more diverse recipes, taking up knitting or digging into gardening — but you are not yet ready to make a commitment for all of 2026, there is a shelf at the library for you.

"Stacked with items including a #MortarAndPestle, a #SpinningWheel and a #broadfork, the #LibraryOfThings at Cumberland’s #PrinceMemorialLibrary has objects for all types of pursuits ready for patrons to borrow like they would a book.

" 'The tortilla press is quite popular. A lot of people, they want to have a taco party or something, they want to try it out,' said Kelly Greenlee, community outreach librarian at Prince Memorial Library, which serves #CumberlandME and #NorthYarmouthME.

"Categories of 'things' include arts and craft supplies, science and technology devices, health and wellness equipment and home and garden tools. When acquiring items for this collection, librarians look for items that are typically only used once or twice a year, or things that someone would want to test out before they purchase it for themselves. The collection is intended to save library patrons time and money, as well as broaden their horizons — much like books.

" 'It’s designed to encourage people to have a #SharingEconomy, essentially,' said Greenlee. 'Libraries have always been about sharing resources, and it’s really just an extension of that.' "

Read more:
https://www.pressherald.com/2025/12/30/want-to-try-something-new-in-the-new-year-check-out-a-library-of-things/

Archived version:
https://archive.md/cWBiQ

#SolarPunkSunday #LibrariesRule #MaineLibraries #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy

What if Everything is Free? Exploring The #LibraryOfThings Concept

"Research has shown that people are increasingly open to collaborative consumption, with studies indicating a rising willingness to share goods instead of purchasing them outright."

by Jed Brown, Feb 19, 2025

"In today’s consumer-driven society, the idea of ownership is so deeply ingrained that imagining a world where everything is free can seem radical — if not downright impossible.

Yet, emerging initiatives like the Library of Things invite us to reconsider our relationship with material goods. Rather than accumulating items, communities are experimenting with a model where objects are shared rather than owned."

Read more:
https://medium.com/@jedbrown99/what-if-everything-is-free-f52874528afc

#SolarPunkSunday #SharingEconomy #LibrariesOfThings #BorrowDontBuy #Degrowth #LibrariesOfThings #Decapitalize

Why Shop? In #Maine, the #LibraryOfThings Has It All (Almost).

One town’s effort to make pricey items accessible and encourage people to buy less stuff seems to be catching on.

By Cara Buckley, Aug. 20, 2025

"Here’s a short but by no means comprehensive list of items that patrons of Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, Maine, can check out for free: A dumpling steamer. Cannoli-making tubes. A ukulele. A heated leg massager. A Happy Birthday sign. Easels. A foam ax throwing game. A KitchenAid mixer, in chrome or red.

"Mary Gerber, a retired schoolteacher, borrowed hula hoops and a cornhole game for her son’s 2022 backyard wedding, and, more recently, a spiralizer for her homegrown zucchini. Betty McNally, a retired bookkeeper, routinely borrows a loom and a drop spindle to hand-spin yarn. In late July, she checked out a root slayer to tackle the overly abundant hostas in her yard. She’d had it on hold, because there was a waiting list.
'It feels revolutionary,' Ms. McNally said. 'I’m not buying it and storing it and the great thing is it’s really useful but I’m probably only going to use it once or twice. This way, other people can use it. It’s perfection.'

"The Library of Things at Curtis Memorial Library was founded in 2018 to make pricey items accessible and encourage people to buy less stuff. It now has more than 1,500 items, all tailored to meet the needs of the roughly 22,600 people who live in Brunswick, as well as nearby #HarpswellME, which has a population of just over 5,000.

"There’s a driving kit with miniature street signs, a lesson book and a sample test to familiarize new drivers and migrants with the rules of the road. #FoodCanners, fruit tree pickers, molds for homemade Popsicles, a #FoodDehydrator and tomato strainers are offered to help people make their own food.

"Items in high demand can be checked out for only a week, and include a #GrainMill for grinding fresh flour, a nut wizard to gather acorns and other nuts, and, this being Maine, a #BlueberryRake."

Read more:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/20/climate/maine-library-of-things.html

Archived version:
https://archive.ph/yoxBx

#SolarPunkSunday #CurtisMemorialLibrary #BrunswickME #LibraryOfThingsMaine #BorrowDontBuy #PreservingTheHarvest