Tupper Lake, NY – Next time you’re at your local library checking out that new bestseller and picking up some books for the kids, why not check out Wild Center Discovery Passes at the same time? The Wild Center, working with the Clinton Essex Franklin Library System (CEFLS), aims to be a vital part of the community and be accessible to those in the local community who may not be able to come to the museum.

The 11 libraries in the CEFLS will each receive two Discovery Passes to lend to those with library cards, just as one would borrow a book. Borrow the Discovery Pass, bring it to The Wild Center admissions desk and enjoy all that The Wild Center has to offer from Animal Encounters to The Pines playground, Naturalists Cabinet and of course, the otters. The Discovery Pass includes free admission for one family (2 adults and their dependent children), including special Fests. It does not include special Back of House tours or Canoe trips where additional fees are charged. It may be borrowed for up to four days and there are no reserves, holds or renewals.

“The Discovery Pass is a boon to local families who are looking to explore The Wild Center this summer,” said Ewa Jankowska, Director of the CEFLS in Plattsburgh. “CEFLS is excited to collaborate in this project that will let families get familiar with a terrific local resource. As information centers for small communities, local libraries are standing by to connect patrons with a great experience that is right in their own back yards.”

Public libraries throughout the CEFLS three county service area are gearing up for summer reading fun. “Many of our member public libraries have extensive collections of local history and nature books for all ages and what they don’t have, we can get for them,” Jankowska adds. “As part of our ‘Dream Big Read!’ summer reading activities, we’ll be working with local libraries to follow up the Discovery Pass experience by providing and promoting related books, e-books, and special programs.”

Susanna Carey, Director of the Au Sable Forks Free Library is thrilled for this opportunity to offer free family passes to The Wild Center. “Having had the good fortune to visit before I know that it is a delightful place that combines learning and adventure for all ages,” said Carey. “The pass will allow patrons from our library who have not yet had a chance to explore the Center to do so, and hopefully they will share their experience with other future visitors. Or perhaps it will provide people with a chance to return and take advantage of the special events on offer. I believe that this venture between The Wild Center and public/free libraries is an exciting one which hopefully will enlighten the summer of many!”

“The Wild Center and CEFLS each seek to be educational resources for the community, as well as necessary centers for lifelong learning,” said Stephanie Ratcliffe, Executive Director of The Wild Center. “We’re building on a natural partnership and connecting with members of our three local counties. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to experience The Wild Center can.”

The Wild Center hopes to add more libraries to the program in the future.