Outdoor Lending Library

MWA has created a lending library of outdoor gear and educational resources available to the public, funded by several education grants. This comprehensive and inclusive collection is located right in MWA’s office and items are available to be checked out during office hours! 

Outdoor Exploration for All!

It is important to us that the Lending Library is inclusive to all ages and experience levels, so we're offering a wide variety of literature and materials!

We have children’s binoculars for first time birdwatchers and Bushnell binoculars for the avid adult birdwatcher! Children’s fishing poles and waders are also available thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. There are also pre-packed children’s Adventure Backpacks for different age ranges and different interests such as trees, bugs, and nature fun.

Our field guide collection is always expanding! Topics include: mushroom foraging, medicinal plants, freshwater fishing, tree identification, bird watching, and so much more! There are also substantial educational materials available for local educators to use in the classroom.

It's completely free to rent items from the Lending Library! Just check them out at our office in Melcroft, and bring them back within a decided upon return date. We just need to hold a copy of your credit card while the items are out. This will be shredded upon your return!

Items can be rented for multiple days as we want people to be able to take them on camping trips or for educators to be able to utilize materials in their classroom, etc.!

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Our Current Library Inventory:

Upcoming Educational Events

Women & Nonbinary Fishing Clinic

April 28 @ 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Laurel Hill State Park, Lodge at Scenic View
Free

A safe space to learn Learn the basics of fly-fishing in a fun, inclusive environment. Guided by experts in the field, you’ll have plenty of time to practice and absorb…

Birds & Blooms Hike in the Gorge

May 4 @ 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Free

Kick off the spring with a relaxing, informative nature hike on the Indian Creek Valley Trail! Local naturalists, Josh Lawrey and Lisa Smith, will guide us into the Indian Creek…

Family Field Day at Laurel Hill State Park

June 15 @ 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Laurel Hill State Park
Free

This family-friendly, outdoor event, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Education Grant, is free and open to the public. MWA and the park rangers at Laurel Hill State…