Improving Your Community with Neighborhood Science
Los Angeles Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
Neighborhood Science raises awareness of environmental issues by circulating kits on six topics to engage patrons in scientific research in their communities. The Bioblitz Challenge, in which participants documented key indicator species in Los Angeles, enhanced appreciation for urban wildlife and increased scientific knowledge.
Challenge/Opportunity
The Neighborhood Science program:
- Contributes large amounts of local, relevant data to scientists worldwide.
- Increases scientific literacy and enables community participation in project-based scientific research concerning local issues.
- Empowers community members to explore the world around them and learn about the impact of human actions upon the environment.
- Promotes a sustainability mindset.
- Provides important insight into the environmental health of local neighborhoods.
Key Elements of Innovation
Neighborhood Science consists of public programs, circulating kits in 21 libraries on 6 topics (air quality, water quality, night sky, mosquito habitats, biodiversity and clouds), as well as activities like the BioBlitz Challenge, which uses the iNaturalist app to map the biodiversity of Los Angeles. Our partners, including NASA GLOBE, Scistarter, the EPA, the LA Department of Sanitation and Environment and the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability, train our librarians, provide expertise and help develop and promote programs.
Achieved Outcomes
We measure success through program attendance, surveys, feedback, kit circulation numbers and uploaded data. Our latest program series averaged 83 participants per session, and local teachers requested resources for their classrooms. The BioBlitz Challenge had over 14,800 photo uploads, with 29 key indicator species located and mapped. These programs helped us add partners, including Climate Resolve and Los Angeles Birders. The kits are in high demand, and we plan to create more kits for more libraries.
