Anythink Libraries will officially open the doors to the Anythink Nature Library on Saturday, August 8, 2026. This is the nation’s first public nature library. Located on a 15-acre campus adjacent to the 140-acre Aylor Open Lands in Thornton, the 33,000-square-foot library blends traditional library services with immersive nature experiences. The grand opening from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. includes family-friendly activities, live performances, interactive learning experiences, story times and opportunities to explore the library’s indoor and outdoor spaces.
Exterior rendering of the Anythink Libraries Nature Library in Thornton.
Guests can also discover the library’s nature trail, meet live birds of prey, participate in hands-on art activities and experience the innovative spaces that make the Nature Library unlike any other public library in the United States.
Anything Nature Library Grand Opening Schedule
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Discover the wonders of the shortgrass prairie ecosystem from the ground up on the Roots to Sky Loop. This immersive outdoor trail walk takes you on a journey through nature.
11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.: Join in a fun, hands-on cyanotype art project.
Noon to 1 p.m.: Pupusas will be served on the cafe patio, provided by LatinA Flavor Cafe.
12:45, 1:45, 2:45 and 3:45 p.m.: Gather in the Sunroom for fun and engaging story times.
Refreshment stations and live performances will occur throughout the day.
“Public libraries have always evolved alongside the needs of their communities,” said Mark Fink, Executive Director of 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.”
As libraries across the country continue to evolve into centers for creativity, innovation and community connection, the Nature Library introduces a new model by making environmental exploration a core part of the library experience.
The campus helps remove barriers that often prevent people from connecting with nature by providing welcoming spaces, hands-on learning opportunities and resources that encourage visitors of all ages to explore the outdoors with confidence.
Visitors will discover an art and science lab, gardens, gathering spaces, a living plant wall, immersive sensory environments, a water flow and mud pit and interactive TryIts that encourage exploration on and off the property.
TryIts are experiential kits and equipment that encourage people to continue exploring beyond the library.
Library visitors will have access to approximately 550 items across 65 unique collections, including bird-watching kits, wildlife cameras, hiking gear, microscopes, weather exploration tools, gardening equipment, nature art kits and conservation resources. The collection will continue to grow, with a long-term goal of offering more than 1,500 items.
The Anythink Nature Library is located at 6811 E. 136th Ave. in Thornton.
Want More Fun Things To Do?
Look at our full events calendar, where you can type in any date, or check out what’s happening over the next few days right here:
Leave a Reply