Seasonal Spotlight
Seasonal Spotlight is a rotating mini-exhibit that highlights iconic Montana species such as meadowlarks, pronghorn, balsamroot, ponderosa pine, cutthroat trout, sage-grouse, and more. This small museum-style station helps patrons learn about species that define Montana’s seasons and refreshes regularly to spark curiosity year-round.

A Small, Eye-Catching Display Area
Choose a small location in the library to serve as a micro-exhibit. This could be an endcap, a table near the entrance, a bulletin board, or a shelf-top display. This becomes the home for one featured species at a time.
An endcap
A small table near the entrance
A bulletin board
A shelf-top display
Nature Books
A Featured Species Poster
Place a simple, attractive poster at the center of the display. Include a large photo or illustration, the common and scientific name, the season being highlighted, and a short paragraph about why the species matters in Montana. This should feel like a museum label—quick, inviting, and easy to read.
A large photo or illustration of the species
Common and scientific name
A seasonal label such as Spring Spotlight: Meadowlark
A short paragraph describing its importance in Montana
Bite-Sized Reference
Make small laminated cards or fact-bites that invite patrons to learn more
Where is the information about this species cataloged in the library?
Include information about where to spot this species in Montana
What role it plays in the ecosystem
Fun facts about the featured species
What to listen for or look for
Why this species is associated with this season
Add Prompts
Have you seen this species? Add it to iNaturalist!
Display a map or screenshot showing recent local observations
Share information about when this species is most often observed
QR Codes for Deeper Learning
Offer optional QR codes that link curious patrons to more information without requiring programs or staff support.
iNaturalist species profile
Montana Field Guide
A local iNaturalist project for your county
Rotate Themes 
Rotate the exhibit every three to six weeks to reflect seasonal changes. Each rotation brings new interest and encourages repeat visits. Trade out books and information seasonally.
March and April: Western Meadowlark, first songs of spring
May and June: Balsamroot during peak bloom
Summer: Pronghorn or Green Darner dragonflies, long-distance migrants
Fall: Tamarack, Sandhill Cranes, or Kokanee Salmon
Winter: Chickadees, Snowshoe Hare, or Ponderosa Pine
Optional Extras
A tactile element such as a replica track, leaf sample, or feather photo
A book cart of nature guides connected to the featured species
A notebook where patrons can write sightings or comments