Patrons of select public libraries have a new option in 2019 when they check out books and DVDs – they also can check out Washington’s great outdoors.

A program called ‘Check Out Washington’ makes a limited edition Discover Pass available as part of an activities backpack kit containing binoculars, field guides and other interpretive materials. The Discover Pass allows borrowers access to millions of acres of state parks and other state public lands.

Check Out Washington, which launches in March, is offered by Washington State Parks in partnership with the Washington State Library and with the financial support of the Washington State Parks Foundation. The program is in cooperation with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Department of Natural Resources.

Libraries participating in the 2019 program include the Pierce County Library System, Spokane Public Libraries, the Spokane County Library District, and the Mount Vernon City Library. If the program is successful, it could be expanded to additional libraries in future years.

For more information, email Check Out Washington.