MADISON, Wis. — As Wisconsinites gear up for a change in the seasons, the Madison Public Library is launching its first-ever Naturalist-in-Residence series to encourage people to enjoy and care for the outdoors.
Throughout his roughly two-month residency with the theme of “Nature is for Everyone,” local naturalist John C. Newman will lead a series of events including nature walks, birding expeditions, art projects, a canoe trip and more — all of which were picked to help community members explore and learn about the world around them.
“Being a naturalist for me is about seeing the connections between the world of life and the world under our feet or above our heads. A lot of people have this idea that nature is somehow separate, and that to be a naturalist you must go out to a place far away that we call ‘nature,’” Newman said. “I think to be a naturalist can certainly involve visiting beautiful places, but it also is about recognizing how we ourselves are nature, and how the homes and communities we create are part of nature. Nature is all around us, and even inside of us. I want to help as many people as possible start to see the world this way.”
The first of Newman’s events will take place on Saturday, September 3 at Lakeview Library from 11 a.m. to noon. Community members will be able to talk with Newman about his journey as a naturalist and how he developed his passion for the outdoors. The event also includes a trip to Warner Park for an observation activity.
Activities will take place throughout September and into October.
“Libraries are places of learning, enrichment and joy,” said Kristina Gómez, Community Engagement Librarian at Central Library and program coordinator. “The new Naturalist-in-Residence brings those elements to the outdoors as we celebrate nature and build awareness of our role in preserving and protecting the environment. With free and accessible events throughout Madison, the residency will be a welcoming and inclusive space for both those experienced with and new to naturalism.”
More information about the new program and future featured events is available online.
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