Libraries across Virginia have a resource available to help families explore and enjoy the natural world thanks to a partnership between the Library of Virginia, Virginia State Parks and the Science Museum of Virginia. 235 libraries received four nature backpacks each to make available for families to check out and learn about nature in their backyard, local park, or at one of Virginia’s 43 state parks. 

“Today children spend less time outdoors and even less immersed in nature-based activities,” commented Craig Seaver, Former Virginia State Parks Director. “These backpacks will provide opportunities for families to venture out to a park.”

Each backpack comes with a parking pass that will enable the library customer to access any Virginia State Park at no cost. Backpacks also feature pocket guides to bugs and slugs, animal tracks, Virginia birds, mammals, and Virginia trees and wildflowers; port-a-bug field observation container; Big Foot Leave No Trace Ethics Card; magnifying lens; dip net and laminated sheets with suggested activities designed by both Virginia State Parks and the Science Museum of Virginia.  

Backpacks come with field guides, dip nets, magnifiers and
a parking pass to get the family into a Virginia State Park at no cost

“How I wish there had been a resource such as this when my daughter was young,” Librarian of Virginia Sandra Treadway said. “The Library of Virginia is delighted to help make these backpacks available to Virginia families through community-based public libraries across the Commonwealth.”

The Science Museum of Virginia developed a quick survey that each backpack user will complete so they can evaluate the program. The Science Museum of Virginia also coordinated putting the backpack contents together using twenty volunteers from Car Max.

Fossil hunting is a popular activity at Chippokes,
Westmoreland and York River State Parks

The Institute of Museum and Library Services grant to the Library of Virginia made this project possible in part. The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Its mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Their grant-making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive.

Click here for an interactive map of participating libraries and our Virginia State Parks.