“Let’s Explore Spokane” Web Series
Spokane Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
The average citizen generates 5 pounds of trash per day. But where does it all go? In the “Let’s Explore Spokane” series, Spokane Public Library staff visit with community experts to explore this question and more in a fun-filled journey through Spokane’s unique infrastructure. The library team created a series of 10-minute videos for kids exploring Spokane's resources and natural environment. Videos feature local experts working on wastewater filtration, landfill management, and groundwater monitoring. This series situates the library as a community hub and strengthens relationships with community organizations. Viewers learn more about our region and become better informed about the issues impacting our environment and community today. Future episodes will focus on public parks, composting, voting, and caring for our pet population.
Challenge/Opportunity
Spokane works hard to create a sustainable future for our community, but these efforts are often overlooked. Environmental education is a central tenet of SPL’s youth programming, and we wanted to connect kids and families with community helpers. The "Let's Explore Spokane" series was created to incite children's curiosity about our city, explore how our community functions, and showcase the many people working hard to ensure our region is safe and healthy for everyone.
Key Elements of Innovation
This project leverages the existing skills of library staff to create a new form of programming—digital media centering the public library as a community hub for local exploration. Youth Environmental Specialist Mason Neil connects with community experts, writes the scripts and hosts the episodes, and Video Education Specialist Ryan Tucker films and edits all material. Episodes can be utilized by both the library and featured experts for community education, connecting this resource with viewers who may not typically visit the library or attend programs.
Achieved Outcomes
The first two episodes offer an exciting exploration of how our solid waste is handled and how our wastewater is cleaned before being returned to the Spokane River. Videos showcase community experts who are crucial to the functioning of our region to inspire young audiences who are curious about the world. Videos are shared through the library website, YouTube channel, social media, and broadcasted through local television channels for expanded distribution to new audiences. Featured experts including the Spokane Waste to Energy Facility and Riverside State Park Water Reclamation Facility use these videos for their own education and outreach purposes, further spreading the value and visibility of the library as a central community hub.
