With Earth Day around the corner, many libraries are thinking about how to engage their communities in conversations about climate and care for the planet. But those conversations can feel complicated. How do we talk about climate change with kids in ways that are honest and hopeful? And how do adults manage their own climate anxiety while staying engaged with the issue? 

In this episode, Michelle speaks with environmental educator and bestselling children’s author Rochelle Strauss about using books and storytelling to help young readers build curiosity, empathy, and a connection to the natural world. 

Later senior editor and climate activist Jen Knoch joins us to share insights on climate anxiety in adults and why community and conversation are essential for moving from worry toward action. 

If this topic resonates with you, consider joining OLA’s Climate Action Community of Practice, where library workers from across the sector are sharing ideas, resources, and programming approaches for engaging their communities on climate issues. 

• Find Rochelle Strauss’ books on her website - https://www.rochellestrauss.com/books  
• Follow Rochelle on Instagram at @rochellestraussauthor and @kidscanpress 
• Subscribe to Jen Knoch’s Substack “Five Minutes for the Planet” 
• Join the OLA’s Climate Action Community of Practice: https://accessola.com/communities-of-practice/ 
• Check out the Yellow Cedar Award Nominees
• Other climate, eco and sustainability resources from the Library Marketplace: 
• Inspiring Teens, Tweens, and Families to Make a Difference in the World: Programming to Advance the Sustainable Development Goals 
• Libraries and Sustainability: Programs and Practices for Community Impact 
• 25 Projects for Eco Explorers 
• Young Activists and the Public Library: Facilitating Democracy 
• Libraries and Gardens: Growing Together 
• Teens Go Green: Tips, Techniques, Tools and Themes for YA Programming 
• 25 Read-To-Use Sustainable Living Programs for Libraries




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This podcast is hosted by Michelle Arbuckle and produced by Gina Freitag.  

Editing and additional production support is completed by Helen Chevreau. 

Promotions and communications for this podcast are executed by Laurel McLeod.

For programming inquiries, please email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.  

For promotional and sponsorship inquiries, please email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠