nature Archives – Spokane County Library District

Ways to Enjoy Nature & the Outdoors with Birdwatching, Beekeeping & Gardening

Posted in Explore and Discover, News on February 22, 2024 at 6:00 am

If you’d like to start thinking about spring, planning for your garden, and exploring more of what nature has to offer, then the library has a full slate of programs this spring to help you enjoy the outdoors—including your own backyard. You can enjoy birdwatching, beekeeping, and gardening events that will... […]

Journey of a Citizen Scientist: Finding Meaningful & Helpful Interactions with Nature

Posted in Explore and Discover on April 26, 2023 at 6:00 am

By Savannah Stewart For the past few years, I’ve been working on connecting more with my environment—not just in a meditative sense, although I have been doing that as well. I’ve been focusing on doing things that are impactful to our community and that get me outside more. A couple years ago, I stumbled across […]

6 Hikes for Stunning Spring Sightings in Spokane Valley & Surrounding Areas

Posted in Explore and Discover on March 28, 2022 at 6:00 am

By Caitlin Wheeler I love cherry trees. Specifically, I love them for the two or three days in spring just past their brightest bloom, when you can stand underneath one, tug on a branch, and find yourself absolutely showered in the falling blossoms. In the spring of 2020, there wasn’t much recreation I could do […]

3 Easy Gardening Projects to Tackle This Spring, Plus Helpful Programs for Gardeners

Posted in Explore and Discover on February 16, 2022 at 6:00 am

These three gardening projects for the 2022 season are a bit more urban in nature than for those with vegetable gardens: dividing perennials, adding a second rain barrel, and creating a container herb garden. Check out the library's gardening resources & upcoming programs to see your projects come to life. […]

Book Gift Ideas You Can Check Out at the Library Before You Buy

Posted in Explore and Discover on December 8, 2021 at 6:00 am

The holiday season is when I love to give books as presents to family and friends. I read a wide variety of titles throughout the year, and inevitably, as I’m reading, I’ll think of someone who will also enjoy the book. So, I’ve complied this list of books that could make great gifts for your loved ones too. I’ve sorted them into interests […]

31 Ways to Explore the Marvels of Nature Each Day in August

Posted in Explore and Discover on July 28, 2021 at 6:00 am

BY ABRA COLE Summer is winding down, and August may just be our last chance to get outdoors and explore before the season turns to autumn. Since factors such as extreme hot weather and smoke may affect actual outdoor plans, I’ve compiled a variety of potential activities that fit different weather situations. Think you can’t […]

North Spokane County Trails for Easy Treks & Adventures in Nature

Posted in Explore and Discover on July 21, 2021 at 6:00 am

Today’s post features trails on the north side of Spokane that are within 30 minutes of one or more county libraries. You can set aside a half hour or a whole day to explore one of these spots. And remember to bring plenty of water in order to beat the heat! […]

Pleasant Day Hikes & Easy Walking Adventures in South Spokane County

Posted in Explore and Discover on May 12, 2021 at 6:00 am

BY CAITLIN WHEELER In 2018, I started working at the Otis Orchards Library just as I was also desperately trying to fit exercise into a routine laden with reading books, making art, and crafting. My drive to Otis Orchards took me over the Harvard Road Bridge, where a Centennial Trailhead happened to sit just three […]

2021 Discover Passes available for curbside pickup

Posted in News on February 25, 2021 at 4:30 am

BY GWENDOLYN HALEY We have good news for all who enjoy nature and the outdoors! The 2021 Check Out Washington Discover Passes have arrived at the library. You can explore millions of acres of state parks and public lands. The Check Out Washington backpack includes binoculars, field guides, other interpretive materials, and a special Discover […]

Let’s go outside! Wintertime play & activities for everyone

Posted in Explore and Discover on December 17, 2020 at 6:00 am

By Abra Cole Winter officially starts next week on December 21. This fall, we’ve already had below freezing temperatures and snow. And in the months ahead, we can expect even more snowy days and below freezing cold. I propose the following idea: there is no reason to shelter inside until spring! As the Norwegians say: […]

TAG: nature