9/12/2025
Youth Services, Library Programs, Community Engagement

The Nevada State Library and local libraries across the state are proud to announce the successful launch of the Adventure Backpacks Program, a unique initiative designed to bring educational, hands-on learning experiences to families and children. These themed backpacks provide everything needed for outdoor exploration and discovery, combining books, activity materials, and resources that promote literacy and environmental curiosity.

Since the program's launch on August 5, 2025, 17 out of 20 Nevada library districts have participated, with 174 backpacks ordered and distributed statewide. Each backpack includes three carefully selected books, Nevada State Parks passports, trail guides, maps, pamphlets, and hands-on activity tools such as binoculars, magnifying glasses, compasses, flashlights, and telescopes.

This program is made possible thanks to grant funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), administered by the Nevada State Library, Archives and Public Records (NSLAPR).

The backpacks come in four adventure themes, each designed to spark curiosity in different areas of Nevada's rich natural environment:

  • Desert Plants 🌵 - Explore local flora with field guides, binoculars, and plant identification activities.
  • It Moves (Wildlife) 🐾 - Become a wildlife detective with binoculars, field guides, and interactive observation sheets.
  • Night Views 🌌 - Discover the night sky with a monocular telescope, star charts, and constellation flashcards.
  • Treasure Hunt 💎 - Investigate rocks, fossils, and minerals while following scavenger hunts and challenge sheets.
Desert Plants, It Moves, Treasure Hunt, and Night Views Backpacks

Nevada State Parks generously supported the program by providing brochures, trail guides, passports, and maps, which were included in every backpack. These resources connect families to Nevada's incredible outdoor spaces, offering guidance and inspiration for exploration close to home.

Program Goals: 

  • Encourage hands-on learning and outdoor activities for families.
  • Promote reading and early literacy in fun and interactive ways.
  • Position libraries as community hubs for education and engagement.

All backpacks have been cataloged and tagged for easy checkout at participating libraries, ensuring that families across Nevada can access these engaging resources year-round.

Feedback from library staff and patrons will be collected throughout the year to assess program impact and identify opportunities for expansion. The program will also feature stories and photos from participating libraries, showcasing how these backpacks are fostering curiosity, learning, and family engagement across Nevada.

The Nevada State Library, Archives and Public Records extends a special thank-you to Nevada State Parks for their invaluable support and materials, as well as to all library staff who helped make this program a success. We look forward to seeing families explore Nevada together - one backpack at a time!

Check out an Adventure Backpack at your local Nevada library today!