Birding Backpack Lending Program (Borrow Birding Gear for Free)
This I BIRD NY program offers opportunities for beginner birders to borrow birding equipment (binoculars, bird guides, backpacks) for free. This is a great way for budding birders to get started and become familiar with birds and birding before purchasing their own equipment.
Becoming a Provider
Public libraries are eligible to participate. Email the Office of Outdoor Recreation ([email protected]) for more information on how to become a participating provider in library lender program.
DEC is currently able to support 100 libraries through this program. Please be aware that due to the positive reception and a large volume of inquiries, we may not be able to accommodate all requests to participate during this initial program launch.
What DEC Supplies to Providers
- Birding equipment: backpacks, binoculars, bird guides, flash drive with digital materials.
- Literature and print materials on birds, the basics of birding, and birding challenges.
Responsibilities of Providers
- Loan out birding equipment to the public.
- Maintain a log on how many birding backpacks were loaned.
- Maintain the birding backpacks. If you do not have someone on staff who can maintain the equipment, we recommend contacting a local birding club or organization (e.g., Audubon Society Chapter, Birding Club, etc.) and ask if they can help.
- A fee cannot be charged for loaning out the backpack; however, late return fees can apply.
Participating libraries will be added to a list below following acceptance into the program.
This project is supported by a grant awarded from Empire State Development and the New York State Division of Tourism / I LOVE NY through the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program, funded through the federal American Rescue Plan, and the New York State Environmental Protection Fund. The “I BIRD NY” logo is a trademark owned by and approved for use courtesy of the New York State Department of Economic Development.
