The McNichols Campus Library at the University of Detroit Mercy has introduced birdwatching kits as part of its “Library of Things” collection, providing students with free access to resources that promote wellness, accessibility and engagement with nature.
The kits are now available for checkout and include tools designed for beginner birdwatchers, allowing students to explore a new hobby without financial barriers.
“Several factors inspired us,” said Kate Harger, dean of libraries. “First, we were inspired by the Jesuit and Mercy values of environmental stewardship and reflection. The kits provide a great way to practice Cura Personalis (care for the whole person) by encouraging students to nurture their spirits through a deeper connection with the natural world.”
Harger said the program also reflects a broader shift in how libraries define access.
“Currently, libraries across the country are reimagining and expanding their thinking about what ‘access’ means,” Harger said. “By offering access to items which might otherwise be a pricey investment for a student, like purchasing binoculars and or birding guides, we can democratize the hobby of birding.”
Each kit includes one pair of binoculars, a laminated tri-fold copy of “Sibley’s Guide to Backyard Birds of the Midwest,” and a book such as “National Geographic’s Backyard Guide to the Birds of North America” or “North American Bird Watching for Beginners.”
“We knew we wanted to include everything someone would need to get started with birdwatching in each kit, so it was important to include not only guides and written materials, but also binoculars,” Harger said.
The initiative also aims to support student health beyond recreation by encouraging time outdoors.
“There are great mental health benefits as well as physical health benefits to being in nature and engaging in activities like birdwatching,” Harger said. “A regular practice of being in nature lowers sympathetic (fight-or-flight) activity and increases parasympathetic (rest-and-recover) activity. It can lower heart rate and blood pressure and it can help with the reduction of negative emotions.”
Although the program is new, Harger said she hopes students will take advantage of the opportunity.
“It’s too early, so we haven’t yet received any feedback,” Harger said. “My hope is that students will take advantage of this resource. Even 20 minutes of an activity like birdwatching can offer great wellness benefits. It is easy to do, it can be done right here on campus, and it is free.”
Harger said birdwatching also aligns with the University’s mission and values.
“Birdwatching fosters a connection with the local environment, encouraging stewardship of nature, which aligns with the Sisters of Mercy’s commitment to caring for the Earth,” Harger said. “The quiet, observant nature of birdwatching aligns with the Ignatian tradition of finding God in all things.”
The library plans to expand its “Library of Things” collection in the future based on student interest.
“Absolutely,” Harger said. “With input from students, we would like to be able to offer all types of items through our ‘Library of Things,’ not just outdoor or wellness-focused items, but tech gadgets, tools, instruments, items that focus on creative pursuits and enrichment.”