During the last two weeks 221 additional public library systems have been added to a live directory of public library systems in North America that provide movement-based programs and services on an ongoing basis. The directory now contains 792 public library systems.

Take a look at  how public libraries throughout the U.S. and Canada create opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to move and to be active.

Here are some highlights from recent additions:

Milton Public Library (Wisconsin) offers an annual program called “ Milton Mayhem” in June. Here is the program description: “You and a partner will bike to various places in Milton, complete a challenge at each stop, and ride back to the library once you have visited all seven locations. Participants must wear bike helmets. All ages are welcome, but please be advised that you will be riding around the city and sharing streets with car traffic. Registration is required.” 

Lawrence Public Library (Kansas) offers  Fitness Fridays during the Summer. The program was so successful in 2016 that the library is briniging in back for 2017, and hopes to do it in subsequent years. The library has teamed up with area fitness instructors and gyms to bring you something new to add to your workout routine. Learn Capoeira, Boxing, Zumba, Yoga, Tai Chi, HIIT, and more at the library this summer.  

At the  Livingston Parish Library (Louisiana) a Wiggle Worms (Ages 0-5) program is offered every first Monday at the Main Branch, every second Friday at the Denham Springs-Walker Branch, and every fourth Monday at the Albany-Springfield Branch. Exercise for Seniors classes are offered every third Friday at the Denham-Springs Walker Branch.

Cold Lake Public Library (Alberta) has a fit-desk patrons can use when they read/study at the library. 

Kendallville Public Library (Indiana) has an ongoing initiative called “ Rambling Rocks” in which participants: Step 1. Paint rocks – be creative and have fun!, Step 2. Hide the rocks all over Noble County, Step 3. Go look for rocks that others have hidden, Step 4. When you find rocks, take a picture and post in this group to let us know where you found them, Step 5. Hide the rocks again for others to find. Run with it by adding new rocks all the time. The Rambling Rocks Scavenger Hunt is open to all ages, and is a great opportunity for some family fun. 

Also in Indiana, in Bloomington (Monroe County Public Library), you can stop by the library every Friday afternoon for  Ping Pong Palooza. Everyone gets to take turns playing on one of the library’s three ping pong tables. 

Finally, in the following states you can check out passes to State Parks at most public libraries throughout the state: Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Dakota, Vermont.  (Note that in many states entry to state parks is free!) Colorado has taken this program to the next level by making available  Backpacks for checkout that include binoculars, a wildlife viewing guide, a tree and wildflower identification guide, a park brochure, suggested activities list and the Leave No Trace outdoor ethics principles.   

During June and July, 2017, the Let’s Move in Libraries project is incentivizing participation in efforts to map the current state of movement-based programs in public libraries. Those who add to or correct the directory will be entered into a raffle for one of five $50 Amazon gift cards, to be distributed in August 2017. To get started,  go to the website and look at your state.  Please note that even if you filled out the survey this Spring, your library may not currently be listed in the directory. This is because we do not want to mis-represent your library. Please take a moment to make sure you are in the directory. If not, add your library using the form at the bottom of every page. 

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