Inspire Your Child’s Love for Nature Through Reading

The Children’s Nature Library and Reading Room at River Farm is a dynamic space for young readers pre-K to 6th grade featuring over 1,700 children’s books focused on nature and gardening, story time, and fun educational activities. River Farm’s Children’s Garden, just steps from the library, enriches the experience with opportunities for children to explore gardening and nature in a hands-on setting.

The library was made possible by generous grants from Dominion Energy and Ruppert Family Foundation and an astounding donation of books from the Jane L. Taylor book collection. Program activities are inspired from PlantHeroes.org.

Stay connected with the Children’s Nature Library and other exciting programs, events, and news at River Farm with our monthly River Farm newsletter. Subscribe here.



Visit Us

The Children’s Nature Library and Reading Room
River Farm – 7931 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308
development@ahsgardening.org
www.ahsgardening.org/library 
Hours: Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Story time: 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.


Library Policies

  • Books are not available to take home. Instead, borrow a mat provided by River Farm (while supplies last) and read outside in our beautiful gardens.
  • All books must be returned by close of the library at 1:00 p.m.
  • All children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • The library is a quiet space. Children climbing or being disruptive will be asked to leave. There will be a volunteer on duty at all times.
  • We ask that muddy boots and shoes be left at the door.
  • No dogs are allowed in the library.

Your Support

The American Horticultural Society is deeply grateful for the support of our community as we work to grow our new library. Volunteers are always appreciated and needed – your time and energy would make a tremendous difference. We also welcome donations of books in good condition that cater to grades pre-K-6 and focus on nature themes. If you are interested in volunteering or donating books, please email Katie Tukey at ktukey@ahsgardening.org. 

Your financial contributions will be invaluable in helping us maintain and operate the library and the beautiful River Farm property. Your generosity will ensure that this special place can continue to inspire and educate children and families for years to come. Your support is deeply appreciated. 

(remember to check the designation box “Stewardship of River Farm”)

 

A huge THANK YOU to Dominion Energy for their generosity! In Photo: Bottom row, left to right: Philip Saville (AHS), Derrick Davis (Dominion Energy), Katie Tukey (AHS). Top row, left to right: Shannon Ayres (AHS), Mercedes Bryant (AHS), Vernon Bussie (Dominion Energy), Gaston Araoz (Dominion Energy), Peggy Fox (Dominion Energy), Caitlin Metzger (AHS)