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. The display refreshes regularly to spark curiosity and help patrons learn about species that define Montana’s seasons.
Program Overview
Choose a small location in the library to serve as a micro‑exhibit. Each rotation features one species with a poster, small fact cards, and optional QR codes. This museum‑style display supports quick engagement for all ages.
Learning Outcomes
Build awareness of Montana’s seasonal biodiversityRecognize species commonly associated with each seasonEngage with concise ecological information in a museum‑style formatConnect library resources, The Montana Field Guide, and iNaturalist dataExplore iNaturalist data through QR‑linked species profilesAll ages. Ideal for families, students, adults, and anyone interested in nature and seasonal change
Preparation Checklist
Select an exhibit space (endcap, small table, bulletin board, or shelf‑top Prepare a seasonal species poster with photos and public ecological information Create bite‑sized laminated cards with quick facts and seasonal context Include nature books or field guides related to species Add QR code links to iNaturalist or Montana Field GuideExplore a featured species poster, learning from the image, scientific information, and QR‑linked iNaturalist data.Read brief facts like where to spot the species, what role it plays, seasonal behaviors, and fun observations.Use prompts to watch or listen for the species, check observation maps, or add sightings to iNaturalist.Take it to the next level
Rotate species seasonallyDisplay QR codes for iNaturalist profiles, Montana Field Guide, local projects.Add maps or screenshots showing recent observations near your libraryInclude optional tactile elements (replica tracks, leaf samples, feather photos)Provide a notebook for patrons to write their own sightings or commentsNations Spotlight
The Tribal Nations Biodiversity Spotlight is a rotating mini‑exhibit highlighting plants and animals that have ecological or publicly documented cultural significance to Tribal Nations in Montana.
Staff only need to rotate posters, refresh cards, and check QR codes occasionally.
Program Overview
Choose a dedicated exhibit space for a rotating species spotlight. Each rotation features a single species, focusing on publicly accessible ecological and historical information highlighted by materials from your library’s collection.
Learning Outcomes
Learn about Montana species with ecological and cultural significanceStrengthen awareness of biodiversity across Tribal Nations’ homelandsEngage with rotating public ecological information in a museum‑style exhibitExplore iNaturalist data with QR‑linked species profilesAudience
All ages. Ideal for families, students, adults, and anyone interested in ecology or regional biodiversity.
Preparation Checklist
Prepare a museum‑style poster with a large species photo and public information Create laminated bite‑sized learning cards for surrounding displays Include QR codes linking to the species’ iNaturalist page / Montana observations Refresh posters and cards for each new rotation Add QR code links to iNaturalist or Montana Field GuideSample Patron Experience:
Explore a featured species poster, learning from the image, scientific information, and QR‑linked iNaturalist data.
Read laminated cards with facts: range, role, conservation concerns, presence in flags and place names.
Scan QR codes to view the species’ profile, browse nearby observations, and optionally add their own sightings.
Feature a rotating list of species
Display public references such as appearances in state symbols or place names
Add intergenerational elements like drawing prompts or children’s books
Rotate seasonally
Include signage clarifying that only publicly known, ecological and scientific information is shared
Explore a featured species poster, learning from the image, scientific information, and QR‑linked iNaturalist data.Read laminated cards with facts: range, role, conservation concerns, presence in flags and place names.Scan QR codes to view the species’ profile, browse nearby observations, and optionally add their own sightings.Take it to the next level
Feature a rotating list of speciesDisplay public references such as appearances in state symbols or place namesAdd intergenerational elements like drawing prompts or children’s booksRotate seasonallyInclude signage clarifying that only publicly known, ecological and scientific information is shared
