Above: Scientific mysteries, Story Times with crafts, making butterfly feeders, and an author talk on New England wildlife are among the wide range of nature programs coming up at the library. (images from flyers and book cover)
I’ve previously shared news on a series of nature programs the Library has been offering this fall. Since then, new programs have been added, and the scope and age groups expanded.
Here are the free nature-themed programs that patrons ages 2 through adult can enjoy over the next few months. They include two next week (for 2-5 yr olds and middle schoolers).
Most require pre-registration. Many, but not all, of the programs are through the library’s continuing partnership with Mass Dept of Conservation & Recreation (DCR).
For Kids & Adults
Two special programs are geared to interest a wide range of ages. Both will take place upstairs, on the library’s main floor.
Nature Journaling
Adults & Teens ages 12+
Tuesday, December 16th from 6:00 – 7:00 pm
This DCR program focuses on how Nature Journaling “can significantly improve your mental well-being while fostering a deeper connection with the natural world around you”. Participants will be provide with tools to start their own. (Or they can bring their own to “show off”. (Click here to register.)
Wildlife Out Your Window
Family Friendly for Ages “8 – 108”
Saturday, January 10th from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
This drop-in event sponsored by the Friends of the Southborough Library features the author of “Wildlife Out Your Window: Fascinating Facts About 100 Animals Commonly Seen in the Northeastern U.S.” Author Brad Timm, a wildlife ecologist and the Founder and Executive Director of the Northeast Wildlife Team, will share his favorite facts from the book, plus “discuss simple actions each of us can take to help wildlife around us, answer your wildlife questions, and much more”.
Attendees can also purchase signed copies of the book.
For Ages 8 through Teens
Butterfly Feeders
Wednesday, December 10th from 4:30 – 5:30 pm
This Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots & Shoots initiative program will lead participants in making their own feeders to bring home and put out in their backyards. The event will take place in the upstairs on the main floor. (Click here to register.)
For 6th–8th graders
These hands-on programs are part of the DCR’s series promoting Water Supply Protection.
Both will take place in the Eaton Meeting Room downstairs on a Tuesday afternoon from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. (Click links below to register.)
Macro Mysteries — November 18th: Using a simulated river touch table participants will observe and identify “aquatic macroinvertebrate” creatures. Students will “soon be able to decode the water’s secrets!”- A Tree’s Life — January 13th: Using cross-sections of trees, participants will observe trees’ histories and growth patters. Students will “Discover how trees actively compete for vital resources of light, water, and nutrients”.
For 6–10 Year Olds
Forest to Faucet
Tuesday, December 9th from 4:30 – 5:30 pm
The next hands-on DCR program will teach kids about “how forests affect water”. Kids will build and experiment with a simple water filter model to learn about how forests act as natural filters for our water supply. The program will be held in the downstairs Eaton Meeting Room. (Click here to register.)
For 2–5 Year Olds
DCR will continue holding its monthly Story Time and craft program on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 – 2:15 pm in the Children’s Room. (Click links below to register.)
Nature Story Time: Who’s Been Here? — November 19: Have you seen any wildlife lately? Let’s find out what animals have been around by looking at the clues they left behind. Listen to stories, be nature detectives, and get creative with a craft.- Nature Story Time: Water is Everywhere — December 17: Water-themed picture books and hands-on activities introduce different forms and uses of water. Followed by a simple water experiment and a collage craft.
