Visit the Nation’s First Public Nature Library

You’ve never seen a library like this before. Opened just last week, Anythink Nature Library in Thornton, Colorado, is the first public nature library in the United States. Set on 15 acres, the 33,000-square-foot library combines the library services you know with immersive nature programming.

“Public libraries have always evolved alongside the needs of their communities,” said Mark Fink, executive director, Anythink Libraries. “The Nature Library represents the next evolution: a place where books, nature, science and community come together to inspire curiosity and connection. We hope every visitor leaves feeling more connected to the natural world and empowered to continue exploring it long after they leave.”

The unique structure was built with nature in mind, of course, and the team is currently working toward LEED Gold certification. The property was also designed with community and Indigenous input for a welcoming, collaborative space that makes the natural landscape more accessible.

So, what can you expect while you’re there? Check out the art and science lab, nature trail, living plant wall, or water flow and mud pit, for starters. To encourage patrons to take their explorations off campus, the library will also offer a collection of kits and equipment (known as “TryIts” or “Try Its”), ranging from hiking gear to microscopes, wildlife cameras to gardening equipment.

“The Nature Library is an invitation. We believe curiosity is the first step toward stewardship, and we’re excited to welcome our community into this new chapter. As our community’s interests evolve, so will the Nature Library, from our programming to our TryIts collection and experiences. We’ll continue listening, learning and growing alongside the people we serve,” commented Fink.