Celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month
“Treat Yo' Self.”
Donna Meagle (Parks and Recreation, Season 4, Episode 4)
July is National Parks and Recreation Month, a time to “treat yo' self,” to the outdoor spaces and community programs that make our lives brighter, healthier, and more connected. Whether it’s a sprawling national park or your neighborhood playground, these spaces are essential for both personal well-being and community strength.
At the Sue Shaffer Learning Commons and Library, we’re proud to recognize the parks, people, and programs that make Douglas County, and all of Oregon, such a beautiful place to live and learn. We invite you to take this opportunity to explore the history, science, and significance of outdoor recreation through the resources we offer.
Parks in Douglas County
From the rugged beauty of Umpqua National Forest to the charming walking trails at Stewart Park, Douglas County is home to some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring outdoor experiences in Oregon. Local parks, trails, waterfalls and recreation programs offer countless ways to connect with nature, stay active, and strengthen community ties. The book Land of the Umpqua opens with vivid photos and descriptions of some of the region’s most stunning sites, many of which can be explored by hiking through local parks, such as Lemolo Falls. It also highlights numerous places of historical significance, offering great ideas for anyone looking to experience the cultural and natural beauty of the Umpqua area.
Oregon Parks and Recreation is responsible for some of the most breathtaking and diverse destinations in the state. From the windswept beaches of Cape Lookout State Park to the dramatic cliffs and rock formations at Shore Acres, Oregon’s coastal parks offer unforgettable ocean views. Inland, visitors can explore the towering waterfalls and dense forests of Silver Falls State Park, or hike among the ancient lava flows at Smith Rock, a world-renowned climbing destination. Crater Lake National Park is a breathtaking destination, known for its deep blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the deepest lake in the United States, formed within the caldera of an ancient volcano. For a taste of history, places like Fort Stevens and Champoeg State Heritage Area connect visitors to Oregon’s past. With over 250 parks, trails, and heritage sites, the department offers a wide range of landscapes and activities that showcase the natural and cultural richness of the state, and for a detailed guide with maps and tips for hikers, backpackers, climbers, cross-country skiers, and paddlers, Exploring Oregon's Wild Areas by William L. Sullivan is a great resource.
Why Parks Matter
Parks are more than just green spaces, they’re tools for physical and mental wellness, environmental stewardship, public education, engagement, equity and access to safe, open spaces. They provide room to breathe, grow, and reflect. In the immortal words of Ronald Ulysses Swanson,
Go outside. Remain. There. Until morning.”
(Season 3, Episode 2)
Wise advice, especially in July.
Library Resources to Explore Parks and Recreation
Books & eBooks: Hiking and Backpacking by Marni Goldenberg and Bruce Martin, offers practical guidance on how to make your outdoor adventures safe, eco-friendly, and enjoyable. Science, Conservation, and National Parks, edited by Steven R. Beissinger, David D. Ackerly, Holly Doremus, and Gary E. Machlis, explores how scientific research informs conservation efforts within U.S. national parks. The book brings together perspectives from ecology, policy, and law to address the challenges of protecting natural and cultural resources in a changing world. The book The National Parks of America by Michael Brett is a visually rich photographic guide showcasing more than 50 of the United States’ national parks, from Grand Canyon and Yosemite to Glacier Bay and Acadia. Across its 240 pages, it blends breathtaking full color images, 54 maps, and concise visitor information, such as access, lodging, hiking, and wildlife; to both inspire and inform travelers and nature lovers. This Land Is Your Land: The Story of Field Biology in America by Michael J. Lanoo is great for those interested in ecology and field science.
Academic Search Complete: You’ll find thought provoking articles like Examining Early Influences of Sports and Outdoor Recreation on Individuals through the Lens of Alderian Psychology. This database also explores topics such as Urban Green Spaces and Equity, as well as learning how Parks can be a Public Forum
Films on Demand: Watch enlightening films such as The National Parks: America's Best Idea, Ken Burns’ moving series on the history and power of public lands. Also check out Going to Green a sustainability series is inspired by the award-winning PBS documentary series Edens Lost & Found, which focuses on revitalizing America’s urban landscapes by building sustainable neighborhood ecosystems.
Kanopy: Stream films such as National Parks Adventure a film narrated by Robert Redford is a film that celebrates 100 years of America’s national parks, taking viewers on a breathtaking journey through iconic landscapes like Yellowstone and Yosemite with adventurers Conrad Anker, Max Lowe, and Rachel Pohl. Also stream a very engaging film called Assembling North America, Park by Park. This film is about surveying parks and assessing the geology of the diverse continent. Rebels with a Cause is a documentary on preserving open spaces near urban areas from rampant development.
Parks Are for Everyone
“It's pointless for a human to paint scenes of nature when they can go outside and stand in it.”
Ron Swanson (Season 3, Episode 11)
From Douglas County’s trails and day-use areas to America’s vast network of national parks, outdoor spaces connect us to the land and to each other. They remind us that public resources, when protected and nurtured, offer lifelong benefits for everyone. So, this Parks and Recreation Month, take Ron Swanson’s advice (well, maybe not all of it), get outside, and celebrate the places that make our communities whole. Whether you’re hiking, reading under a tree, or joining a summer rec program; remember, the UCC Library is here to support your journey with knowledge, inspiration, and resources for every kind of explorer.
Happy adventuring!
Spooky Season at the Library
Halloween is the perfect time to explore the eerie side of our library! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic ghost story or curious about the history behind Halloween traditions, we’ve got plenty of books and databases to satisfy your spooky curiosity.
On the Shelves:
Looking for something to send chills down your spine? Try these timeless favorites:
The Annotated Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: the original tale of science and horror.
Novels and Stories: The Lottery, The Haunting of Hill House, we have always lived in the Castle, other stories and sketches by Shirley Jackson: haunting psychological masterpieces.
The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury: Short tales of aliens, only if you like sci-fi, but who doesn't.
In Our Databases:
Our digital collections are full of fascinating Halloween finds:
Gale Literature (LitFinder): You can read such classic stories such as Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, or if you are looking for something a little less scary such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame, by Victor Hugo.
History Reference Source: See the Origins of the Jack O Lantern.
Kanopy: stream classic horror films and documentaries right from home, like The Fog.
Whether you’re reading, researching, or just looking for a frightfully fun film night, the library has you covered. Stop by, or log in, and celebrate the season of scares with us.
Don't Forget!
Join us this Friday, October 31, for Spooky Movie Time! in the Library's Innovation room from 11 AM-4 PM!
Drop in at any time, whether you stay for one movie or the whole afternoon, you're welcome to come relax, hang out, and enjoy a lineup of spooky (but fun) films. It's the perfect way to take a break and get into the Halloween Spirit. We can't wait to see you there!
Happy Halloween!
Commenting on blog posts requires an account.
Login is required to interact with this comment. Please and try again.
If you do not have an account, Register Now.