Explore more banner with the text "Explore More at Pritchard Park: outdoor science, environmental education, nature play"

What is Explore More?

Explore More at Pritchard Park invites you to discover the park through environmental education programming, nature play, and outdoor science opportunities for all ages.

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Environmental education

Our programs build sensitivity and awareness of the environment and provide opportunities to explore environmental issues in a hands-on, approachable way. Check out our calendar to join us for an upcoming event.

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Nature play

Nature play encourages kids (and adults!) to connect with the outdoors through unstructured activities using natural elements like sticks, leaves, rocks, and other found items. 

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Outdoor science

Connect with and contribute to scientific research through citizen science projects that ask questions about the plants, animals, and weather in our neighborhood. 

In the park

Explore More goes beyond the natural beauty of Pritchard Park. It includes a variety of features designed to help you connect with nature, from a bird blind and dig pit to a pollinator garden and binocular station.

Digital resources

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Adventure Lab

Download the app-based geocaching experience and walk through Pritchard Park to discover opportunities for nature play, outdoor science, and environmental education.

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ecoEXPLORE logo icon

ecoEXPLORE

Combining science exploration and kid-friendly technology, ecoEXPLORE encourages kids to explore the outdoors and participate in community science.

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iNaturalist logo icon

iNaturalist

Learn about nature, identify plants and animals, and create useful data for scientists.

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Upcoming events

This event is in the "Kids" group
This event is in the "Teens" group
This event is in the "Adults" group

Hobbit Hike

2:00pm–4:00pm
Kids, Teens, Adults
Explore More
Full
Registration Required
Location: Library
Room: Meeting Room A
Age Group: Kids, Teens, Adults
Program Type: Explore More
Registration Required
Event Details:

We’re going on an adventure! Join us for a magical, hobbit-inspired hike through “Middle Earth” (Pritchard Park). We’ll keep watch for Ringwraiths, Orcs, spiders, and dragons while we traverse a one-mile loop.

Things to Know

Photography

We frequently take photos and videos at our events. Here's what we do with them.

Food Allergy

We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.

This event is in the "Kids" group
This event is in the "Teens" group
This event is in the "Adults" group

Volunteer Workday in Pritchard Park

9:30am–12:00pm
Kids, Teens, Adults
Explore More
Location: Library
Age Group: Kids, Teens, Adults
Program Type: Explore More
Event Details:

Grab your gloves and pitch in to improve our Pritchard Park ecosystem. We'll remove non-native and invasive species, plant native trees and perennials, and maintain natural areas in the park.

Things to Know

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Photography

We frequently take photos and videos at our events. Here's what we do with them.

This event is in the "Kids" group
This event is in the "Teens" group
This event is in the "Adults" group

Volunteer Workday in Pritchard Park

9:30am–12:00pm
Kids, Teens, Adults
Explore More
Location: Library
Age Group: Kids, Teens, Adults
Program Type: Explore More
Event Details:

Grab your gloves and pitch in to improve our Pritchard Park ecosystem. We'll remove non-native and invasive species, plant native trees and perennials, and maintain natural areas in the park.

Things to Know

Accessibility

The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.

Photography

We frequently take photos and videos at our events. Here's what we do with them.

In the collection

You can also Explore More inside the library and at home by borrowing one of our Kids Nature Backpacks, Outdoor Science Kits, or STEM book kits. Check out our indoor display for seasonal book lists, activities, and ways to engage with nature. 

Outdoor science kit in plastic container

Outdoor science kits

Kits feature locally-relevant Citizen Science projects and related resources to connect people to nature and contribute to scientific research.

Check it out
Nature Backpack with bug net

Kids nature backpacks

Backpacks contain books, tools, and activities to engage kids and families in exploring nature.

Check it out

Volunteer opportunities

Want to get involved with Explore More? Check out our volunteer opportunities below. Interested in volunteering outside with a group? Contact Dale Morgan for more information. 

Youth Event Support Volunteer

Teen volunteers are needed to help staff set-up, break down, and assist with library programs and events for youth, especially during summer and on afternoons and weekends during the school year.

Eco Monitor

Collect data about the world in our backyard – and help library visitors do the same. Participate in outdoor science events to contribute scientific knowledge and support environmental education.

Pritchard Park Workday Volunteer

Grab your gloves and pitch in to improve our park ecosystem as a regular Pritchard Park workday volunteer. Workdays are held from 9:30am-12pm one Saturday per month.

Garden Corps

Volunteers in the Garden Corps help us keep our native plants happy, healthy, and looking good.

Event Support Volunteer

From set up to tear down, event support volunteers help library events and programs run smoothly.