Richmond, BC – The library, together with partners BC Parks and AdventureSmart, is introducing a unique one-of-a-kind collection of Hiking ExplorePACKS. Richmond Public Library is the first library in BC to offer hiking kits for community members to borrow, free of charge.
Richmond offers many kilometres of vast natural trails, parks and pathways to explore. The ExplorePACKS contain the basics needed to get started, including trekking poles, a compass, headlamp, rescue whistle and more, all contained in a rugged backpack that has room for your own personal essentials to be added so that you can fully and safely enjoy your day of hiking.
In addition to promoting exercise outdoors, hiking can boost mood and memory, reduce stress, and even alleviate depression and anxiety.
“We are fortunate to live in a province that has an abundance of spectacular parks and trails for people to explore and experience the physical and mental health benefits from being in nature,” said Kelly Greene, Parliamentary Secretary for the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “Hiking ExplorePACKS are an exciting new initiative to help people get outside to explore our local trails with basic hiking equipment and educational materials for a safe day outdoors.”
“BC AdventureSmart is excited to be partnering with the Richmond Public Library, and BC Parks, to promote hiking safety,” said Sandra Riches, Executive Director of BC AdventureSmart. “BC is a hikers paradise just waiting to be explored! We’re excited to offer items such as safety whistles, emergency shelters and emergency signalling cards for hikers to add to their backpacks.”
The Hiking ExplorePACKS are being introduced at a launch event at the Brighouse branch on Tuesday June 14 at 10:30am. Join the Mayor and special guests for an up-close look at the new collection, learn about hiking safety tips from local author and hiking expert Stephen Hui, and try your hand at a compass orienteering course in the library! Register today to save your seat at this exciting event https://yourlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/629a3f64316f8c4100f4c194.
To learn more about the library’s Hiking ExplorePACKS, visit https://www.yourlibrary.ca/hiking.