Michigan Field Guides put nature at residents fingertips

Anyone about to head out to a favorite Michigan state park should first check out the new curated Michigan Field Guides – a special collection that offers insights into local wildlife, native plants and outdoor adventures.

Offering these guides is part of a new partnership between the Library of Michigan and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

“We’re so excited about this collaboration aimed at enriching the outdoor experiences of residents and visitors to our beautiful state,” said Maia Turek, engagement and innovations specialist for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “One of the best things about this new partnership is that these guides are free to access through the Library of Michigan’s ReadMichigan.org e-book platform.”

With detailed information on flora, fauna, geology and other natural features, the Michigan Field Guides will now be easily accessible to anyone with a mobile device. Whether identifying wildflowers along the trails, spotting native birds or learning about Michigan’s unique ecosystems, users can dive deeper into the natural world around them.

The guides are available for instant use at ReadMichigan.org, a free resource provided by the Library of Michigan that offers access to Michigan-based e-books and educational materials with no wait lists or holds to Michigan residents or visitors anywhere within the state.

“This collaboration makes it easier than ever for people to connect with our state’s rich story and natural environment,” said State Librarian Randy Riley. “ReadMichigan.org helps us bridge the gap between experiencing nature and understanding it, presenting real-time learning opportunities while exploring Michigan’s great outdoors.”

ReadMichigan.org was initially developed by the Library of Michigan in collaboration with Michigan Humanities and the presses of?University of Michigan,?Michigan State University and?Wayne State University to create a unique collection of regional e-books available to all Michigan residents. The collection has expanded to include many past Michigan Notable Books selections, titles by Michigan poets, and local histories of towns and cities across the state.

This newest partnership underscores Michigan’s commitment to accessible learning and environmental awareness for all ages and is part of a broader effort to enhance the visitor experience across Michigan’s 100-plus state parks.

The Library of Michigan is an agency within the Michigan Department of Education and is dedicated to providing the people of this state and their government with one perpetual institution to collect, preserve and provide access to the story of the state, and to support libraries in their role as essential community anchors. To learn more, visit Michigan.gov/LibraryofMichigan.