Starting today, June 20th, almost 300 libraries across the state will offer backpacks for checkout through a new program called "Check Out State Parks."
The backpacks contain a free park pass that gives access to all of the state's 42 parks.
Matt Robbins, spokesman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, says this is part of a state initiative to get more people outside.
"We simply are waving the fees," Robbins said. "We're doing it because we feel it's important to get folks outside, and particularly folks who haven't visited us."
In addition to the park pass, each backpack has wildlife guides, state park guides, and a pair of binoculars. They can be checked out for up to one week.
The program is launching statewide after a successful pilot program in eight libraries last year.
The Pikes Peak, Pueblo, and Trinidad library districts are expected to participate.
