Outdoor experiences and hands-on learning are at the root of the Anythink Nature Library’s vision. And they’re putting those values into action, starting with the library’s first full week.
Following the Grand Opening event, the Nature Library will celebrate Generation Wild Week, from Aug. 10-15, with 6 days of programming inspired by Generation Wild, an initiative from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), and their mission to “rewild” kids.
“Being outside in nature helps kids in so many ways. It helps them learn, it helps them regulate emotions and it helps them form relationships,” Nature Library Youth Guide Julie Crabb-Abbott said. “So, that’s why we wanted to have a whole week dedicated to it.”
All week, customers can try out activities from Generation Wild’s “100 Things to Do Before You’re 12” list, which includes flying kites, reading a book under a tree, making a mud pie and playing hopscotch.
Those older than 12 are welcome to partake, too! An all-ages photo contest will run throughout the week. Teens and adults are also invited to participate in our Nocturnal Nature program in the Dark Room on Aug. 13, where they will step into a multisensory sanctuary with soothing sounds of the night. All ages are also encouraged to bring a meal and blanket for a morning picnic at the library’s Sun-Up Social event, concluding the week’s festivities on Saturday, Aug. 15.
Each day will feature programs for various age groups, such as a “Meet the Mud Pit” day. Generation Wild’s mascot Wilder (part-mountain goat, part-yeti and all friend) will also visit the Nature Library on Monday, Aug. 10.
Rosemary Dempesy, GOCO director of Marketing and Communications, said the organization was “so inspired” by the Nature Library and were eager to partner with Anythink Libraries to help kids and families connect with nature.
“Generation Wild loves libraries, because they’re a place of learning, exploration and joy —just like the outdoors — and a nature library brings those benefits to the next level,” she said. “We thought this was an incredible alignment of mission.”
“We also love to bring our mascot Wilder out to part out to places where we know were going to run into families.”
Crabb-Abbott says Generation Wild has had a long relationship with Anythink Libraries, and they’re excited to deepen that connection with Generation Wild Week.
“Their mission to get kids outside aligns with the Nature Library’s desire to encourage outdoor experiences, because that’s where we believe learning takes place.”
Visit our online event calendar to learn more about Generation Wild Week and register for programs.