The Nature Explore Classroom at Hurlburt Field Base Library

Some of the children who enjoy Hurlburt Field Library have traveled around the world.

The staff felt that while they live in Florida, they should get to see some of the native plants up close. This year, sugar cane, cotton and peanuts were planted. The cotton was especially fun to see grow from the soft fuzzy seeds. Fragrant lilies and Tea Olive shrubs were planted this spring which are very low maintenance. Marking the back of the garden area, they will also grow to conceal trash containers. Blueberry bushes were planted in planters.

The Hurlburt Field Library butterfly garden is a way station for Gulf Fritillary and Monarch butterflies. In the fall, there are hundreds of them around the Passion Flower vine. During the Butterfly Story Hour, held in the garden, one butterfly decided to emerge from its chrysalis as soon as the story was finished! What a wonderful learning experience for these little ones.

Staff participated in a Nature Explore Workshop entitled Wonders of Nature. Family involvement continues throughout the year in the Library. A week-long series of brown bag seminars for adults was held in the Nature Explore Classroom during National Library Week. Topics included Front Yard gardening, container gardening with herbs, outdoor photography and recycling.

An educational program for homeschoolers was added which meets once a month to teach healthy living and outdoor activities. A Backyard Safari science program meets every other Saturday…rain or shine. Activities include painting with worms and blending in with the environment. A Mother's Day Garden Party was held this spring and a Summer Reading Program during June and July. Weekly story hour is often held out on the deck.

The outdoor space is used and loved by all and is a great place to catch a little nature every day.