News Briefs: New program allows free access to state parks
California State Parks and the California State Library have announced a new program whereby people can check out park passes at their local library for free vehicle day use entry to more than 200 participating state park units.The program is the latest to advance safe and equitable outdoor access to all Californians, a news release stated."Spending time in nature is crucial to our mental health and well-being," stated first partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. "We're lucky to have the largest state park system in the nation, and I'm thrilled to partner with California State Parks and the California State Library to make those spaces more accessible to California families."As part of the three-year pilot program, each library jurisdiction, including mobile libraries, will receive at least three state library parks pass hang tags per branch for checkout by patrons.
These park passes will enter library circulation in April and May. Library cardholders will be able to check out the pass, use it, then return it for others to check out.
The pass is valid for entry of one passenger vehicle with capacity of nine people or fewer or one highway licensed motorcycle at participating parks."Libraries are trusted community hubs where Californians know they can find what they need to work, play, and thrive," stated Greg Lucas, state librarian. "This partnership with the state parks now allows Californians to 'check out' California's great outdoors at their community library."The release noted that the 2021-22 state budget included initiatives to advance equitable access to state parks and open spaces.
