Our community education programs help residents connect with the natural world and care for the land around them. We share practical, inspiring guidance on native landscaping and earth-friendly practices that improve the health of homes, yards, and local ecosystems.
Through our programs and resources, participants learn how to remove invasive species, build habitat with native plants, attract butterflies and other pollinators, and support birds and other native wildlife.
We offer monthly programs from January through April, as well as educational presentations for organizations upon request. Programs are free, and we’re happy to customize a program to meet your group’s interests.
Programs January through April are held at the Barrington Area Library, 505 N Northwest Highway, Barrington, Illinois.
ID Your Environment
Sunday, January 25 | 2:00-3:30
Guest Speakers: Barb Karon, Laura Simpson, and Ellen Smatlak
Identifying birds and plants wherever you happen to be has become much easier with the help of mobile apps. After a quick overview of some of these, we’ll take a closer look at why and how to use a couple of popular identification tools. We’ll give tips on how to get accurate results worthy of a citizen scientist. View flyer.
Location: Barrington Area Library, 505 N Northwest Highway, Barrington
RSVP for in-person or online attendance.
Registration will close on January 25, 2026 @ 1:30pm.
Garden Despite Drought
How to Choose, Plant and Maintain the Best Species for Climate
Resilience
Sunday, February 22 | 2:00-3:30
Guest Speaker: Matt Hokanson
Droopy, thirsty plants? Tired of watering? With our climate warming, we will experience more drought, as we did this past summer. How do we choose the correct species for new plantings and also protect our existing plants? If we have to water, how often, for how long, and what are best times to do so? What native plants would be happier with drier conditions? View flyer.
Location: Barrington Area Library, 505 N Northwest Highway, Barrington
RSVP for in-person or online attendance.
Registration will close on February 22, 2026 @ 1:30pm.
Natives for Shade
Sunday, March 15 | 2:00-3:30
Guest Speaker: Peggy Simonsen
Diversify the shady spots in your yard! Discover the many beautiful native woodland plants, shrubs and trees that thrive in shade. From the delightful spring ephemerals to summer bloomers to shrubs and trees that provide interest for all seasons, this program will expand your awareness of shade-loving possibilities. View flyer.
Location: Barrington Area Library, 505 N Northwest Highway, Barrington
RSVP for in-person or online attendance.
Registration will close on March 15, 2026 @ 1:30pm.
Secret Wildlife of Barrington
Sunday, April 12 | 2:00-3:30
Guest Speaker: Stephen Barten
Go beyond the casual sighting and discover the hidden lives of the animals that share our Barrington community. Using fascinating day and infrared nighttime trail camera footage, Stephen Barten reveals an astonishing variety of species, from the stealthy coyote and agile red fox to the elusive flying squirrel and hard-working beaver. View flyer.
Location: Barrington Area Library, 505 N Northwest Highway, Barrington
RSVP for in-person or online attendance.
Registration will close on April 12, 2026 @ 1:30pm.