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DEC Launches I BIRD NY Library Lending Program
Published: May 11, 2026 at
10:15 a.m.
By: Press Release
from NYS DEC
DEC Launches I BIRD NY Library Lending Program
New Program Provides Birding Equipment Accessible to
Birders of All Experience Levels Across New York State
New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton has
announced the launch of the I BIRD NY Library Lending Program. The program will
expand access to free birding equipment by offering backpacks with
binoculars and reference materials about birding in New York to libraries
across the State, helping make this enjoyable activity even more fun and
affordable.
“Birding is an
exceptional and affordable activity for all ages to connect with nature and
learn more about the wildlife in our State,” said Commissioner
Amanda Lefton. “The I BIRD NY Library Lending Program is reducing
barriers to participating in birding, encouraging more New Yorkers to Get
Offline and Get Outside.”
Included in the library
lending kits are two backpacks for patrons. Each backpack contains one pair
of binoculars and a folder with birding information and resources,
including an I BIRD NY Pocket Guide to NYS Birds, a binoculars tip strip, a
Beginner’s Guide to Birding booklet, and additional materials to help
people get started with birding. DEC will also provide libraries with
electronic versions of the materials, including translations in additional
languages, to help ensure the resources are readily accessible for patrons.
The Friday
announcement was held at the Frederick Douglass Community Library in
Rochester — the first location to offer the binocular backpacks — in
advance of World Migratory Bird Day on
Saturday, May 9.
DEC will actively
recruit libraries to participate and offer birding backpacks at locations
statewide. There are up to 100 backpacks and materials available, so
interested libraries are encouraged to contact DEC’s Office of Outdoor Recreation to inquire
about participating in the program as soon as possible. DEC will be
reviewing inquiries to ensure participation across the State, with priority
given to libraries located in disadvantaged communities.
To learn more
about the I BIRD NY Library Lending Program, visit www.ibirdny.org to
learn more, view a complete list of included materials, and coming
soon—locations that offer the program. Interested libraries should contact
DEC’s Office of Outdoor Recreation at birdtrail@dec.ny.gov or
(518) 402-3730.
DEC launched the
I BIRD NY initiative in 2017 to build on the State's efforts to increase
access to New York's vast natural resources and promote no-
and low-cost opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with
nature. Through I BIRD NY, DEC is making it easier for New Yorkers to get
started in birding by compiling tips, resources, and
events.
The new lending
program is modeled after DEC’s popular I FISH NY Fishing Rod Lending Program, which is
currently supported by 89 libraries across the state. It also complements
Governor Kathy Hochul’s “These Lands Are For Everyone” accessibility and
inclusivity initiative announced in the 2026 State of the State. To ensure
New York’s open spaces are accessible and inclusive, “These Lands Are For Everyone” is investing in inclusive, sensory
friendly and accessible experiences, including tactile exhibits, sensory
trails and inclusive nature centers, ensuring all children and adults can
enjoy New York’s natural treasures. The “I BIRD NY” logo is a
trademark owned by and approved for use courtesy of the New York State
Department of Economic Development.
City of Rochester
Mayor Malik Evans said, “The I Bird NY Library Lending Program perfectly
complements the incredible progress we’re making to create new
opportunities for children and families to connect with nature, including
the expansion of environmental programming in the City’s R-Centers, opening
the Maplewood Nature Center and the adoption of the Children’s Outdoor Bill
of Rights. I want to commend Governor Kathy Hochul and DEC Commissioner
Amanda Lefton for developing this program. It is extremely gratifying to
see that our partners in State government share our vision to help young
people spend more time playing and learning outside.”
New York State
Librarian Lauren Moore said, “New York State’s libraries serve
as vibrant centers for learning, exploration, and discovery, and this
initiative fully reflects that mission. The I Bird NY Library Lending
Program is incredibly valuable, as it will not only allow New Yorkers to access
birding materials they may otherwise not be able to, but also encourage
patrons to try a new hobby, spend time outside, and experience nature in
new ways. I commend DEC for their ongoing commitment to providing New
Yorkers with resources that allow them to enjoy all that our state has to
offer. Libraries are the perfect partner for this work.”
Rochester Public
Library and Monroe County Library System Director
Emily Clasper said, “The addition of these birding backpacks to
the library collection is a wonderful example of how libraries provide not
just books, but hands-on opportunities for learning, exploration, and
connection with the world around us. By removing cost barriers and making
equipment readily available, we’re helping ensure that more people can
discover the joy of nature and deepen their relationship with the
environment regardless of their experience or background.”
The Spark Bird
Project Director Jenn Lodi-Smith, PhD, said, “Access to
resources like these are one of the primary ways folks fall in love with
birds sparking their journey in conservation and wellness.”
Genesee Valley
Audubon Society President June Summers said, “We
are happy to hear that the DEC is making birding more accessible to
everyone by making these backpacks available in libraries.”
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