Walton library offering State Parks passes
Apr. 13—WALTON — Wander Indiana.
That was an '80s campaign slogan, possibly long forgotten by many, but one that still holds possibilities, especially if a person is a patron of the Walton-Tipton Township Public Library.
Available now, patrons in good standing may "check-out" a state parks pass to be used at any of the Hoosier parks. According to Karen Troutman, director, individuals who are in good standing with their own library, but would want to join Walton's, may do so to have access to the passes. Additional requirements include being a land owner or resident of Cass County with proof of residence and a photo ID. All students and staff of Lewis Cass are eligible to receive a library card.
There are two parks passes being offered, both of which have been donated through a "generous patron," Troutman said, explaining that taxpayer monies were not used for this community benefit. She further said that in 2016, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Indiana State Library issued one pass to every Indiana library. This was in conjunction with the celebration of the centennial of the State Parks and to promote visitation.
However, the program was not renewed in 2018. Therefore, the anonymous patron opted to carry on the sight-seeing promotion on his or her own volition.
And it's one that Troutman whole-heartedly endorses. "The educational benefit of being able to visit state parks is broad," she said. "Studying state history in a classroom can be a bit boring for 4th-graders, but field trips to state parks bring the past to life while connecting kids to nearby nature. It's a magical moment when students first see the green spaces that are so close to their homes. Many parks feature historical landmarks that pay tribute to figures from state history."
"Park visits help students connect what they learn in the classroom to experiences in nature," Troutman continued. "When students see a bird they've never seen before, or when they touch a unique type of plant, it brings the lessons in the classroom to life for them. We have many patrons who like to camp, and this is a way we can help them. Being outside in nature is in itself an education."
That rings true for children and adults, alike.
In fact, she said, DNR interpretative naturalists often put on programs at the library that attract people of all ages. For those who want to gain a bit of insight before heading out into the wild, she encourages people to check out the library's vast assortment of books that could help coordinate and enhance their experience.
The season passes are good through Dec. 31.
Reach Kristi Hileman at kristi.hileman@pharostribune.com or 574-732-5150
