A QR‑Code Nature Walk transforms the outdoor area around the library into an interactive field guide powered by iNaturalist. Each stop along the walking route links to species profiles, identification tools, and quick iNaturalist tips, creating a passive program that encourages community science.

Start Here

Think story walk, but the story is the local environment!

Place a main sign at the entrance to the walk. It introduces the idea of exploring local species and using QR codes to learn about plants, insects, and birds with iNaturalist. Patrons can participate lightly or upload observations to support community science.

A Library iNaturalist Project

Create a project tied to your community. Patrons can join by scanning a QR code at the main sign. Any observations made on library grounds are added automatically to the project, creating an evolving dataset of local biodiversity.

Walk the Grounds 

Choose a short outdoor loop around the library. Select points on the route that offer something patrons can observe and identify. Each stop becomes a place where people can make real observations using iNaturalist.

Signs guide patrons to scan QR codes, try simple challenges, and identify what they see.

Some challenges could be: 

Seasonal Content Updated Digitally

Use QR codes to connect patrons to updated seasonal species information. Digital links can change without replacing physical signs, keeping the walk fresh with minimal staff workload.

Make the walk engaging for families with simple identification tools and gentle prompts that help children explore the natural world around the library.