June 15, 2011
Spend a lazy day with a good book in the great outdoors compliments of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Library of Michigan.
Back for a third summer, the DNR and the Library of Michigan are offering their Park & Read program at more than 400 participating libraries across the state.
While checking out a book, Park & Read allows library cardholders to "check-out" a one-day pass that waives the Recreation Passport entry fee into any Michigan state park or recreation area. This $10 savings also provides a one-time, free access to more than 500 events taking place in state parks throughout the summer, and to make the day even more relaxing, some of the state parks are offering the loan of a hammock.
The Grand Rapids Public Library has been a part of the Park & Read program since its inception in 2009. Marketing and Communications Manager Kristen Krueger-Corrado says the library saw participation jump by 10 percent last year.
"Many of our patrons are struggling to find work and making do with less. The Park & Read program allows them to have an inexpensive way to enjoy Michigan's natural beauty, spend time with family and friends, and exercise their mind and body," Krueger-Corrado said. "Many of our patrons expressed their excitement at being able to check out a Park & Read pass - it was the only way they were able to afford to take their family to the beach that summer. And who doesn't love a day at the beach?"
Passes are valid for seven days from checkout and can be used for one day at any one of Michigan's 98 state parks. Passes are valid for day use only. The program runs through Oct. 1, 2011.
For more information on the program and a complete list of participating libraries, hammock availability and park events taking place throughout the state, visit www.michigan.gov/stateparks.
The Recreation Passport has replaced motor vehicle permits for entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas and state-administered boating access fee sites. This new way to fund Michigan's outdoor recreation opportunities also helps to preserve state forest campgrounds, trails, and historic and cultural sites in state parks, and provides park development grants to local communities.
Michigan residents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($10 for motor vehicles; $5 for motorcycles) by checking "YES" on their license plate renewal forms, or at any state park or recreation area. To learn more about the Recreation Passport, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport or call (517) 241-7275.
Non-resident motor vehicles must still display a valid non-resident Recreation Passport ($29 annual; $8 daily) to enter a Michigan state park, recreation area or state-administered boating access fee site, which can be purchased at any state park or recreation area, or through the Michigan e-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
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