Hasbrouck Heights Library Welcomes Back ZoophoriaNJ, an Immersive and Educational Program for Children

HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, NJ - Books and storytime readings weren't the only things grabbing children's attention at the library this past Thursday. The Hasbrouck Heights Public Library and Youth Services Librarian, Maureen Herman, welcomed ZoophoriaNJ, an organization focused on educating children about wildlife.

ZoophoriaNJ offered a special wildlife program that combined art and animals. The program consisted of meeting and learning about four different animals, hearing about conservation efforts, and finally, making a “Bucket List Journal” to imagine all the places and animals you want to see in the future.

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Samantha Slevens, founder of ZoophoriaNJ, has over 10 years of experience in wildlife education and has a Bachelor's Degree in Zoology.

“I've been obsessed with animals my whole life. These pets are all my animals, and they all live in my house with me,” said Slevens.

“I've had some of them for over 15 years, including my Giant Tortoise, Tripod. He was actually the ring bearer of my wedding! So, they're all part of my family!” continued Slevens.

The event was from 6 to 7 p.m. and was free to all. It was open for children in Kindergarten through sixth grade.

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In minutes, children gathered on the carpet anxiously awaiting the animals. Slevens greeted the children and started her program promptly.

Slevens introduced her animals one by one, beginning with her Cane Toad named Cheeseburger. She explained what Cheeseburger likes to eat and where she typically lives.

Laughter and giggles filled the room when Slevens followed up by dressing Cheeseburger in a bright pink hat. Afterward, Slevens carried Cheeseburger around the carpet and the children had the opportunity to touch her.

Next, Slevens brought out her Bearded Dragon named Arnold. Similarly, she stated some facts about Arnold. She showed the children his spiky appearance and let them pet him, too.

Then, Slevens introduced Noodles, her Boa Constrictor. She explained that Noodles uses her tongue to smell her prey, and that it can take up to two weeks to digest the food she swallows. Once again, the children had the opportunity to touch her. Slevens also made clear that at the end of the program anyone who wanted a picture with Noodles draped around their shoulders would be able to do so.

Slevens directed the children to sit in a circle on the carpet. Once organized, Slevens brought out her Giant Tortoise, named Tripod. She explained that Tripod was only in his 20’s and that he could live to be over 100 years old. The children were able to pet his shell as he slowly made his way around the circle.

Slevens expressed her favorite part of the job: children's reactions changing drastically throughout the show.

“You start the program, and the kids are terrified. You’ll have a few kids that are just really not into it. And by the end of the program, they’ll be the first ones to hold the snake over their shoulders,” said Slevens.

Once finished with her presentation, she explained the art project that would follow. The tables in the meeting room were previously stocked with magazine scraps, art supplies, and pictures of plants, animals, and places.

Each child received a marble notebook that would act as a “Bucket List Journal.” They decorated the notebook with the pictures and supplies and were encouraged to think about what adventures they want to go on in the future.

This year's program was aligned with the theme of “Adventure Begins at the Library.” The Collaborative Summer Library Program, or CSLP, is the nonprofit organization that provides these yearly themes, artwork, and projects to libraries across the nation.

Herman, also known as “Ms. Maureen” revealed the importance of holding various events at the library. She believes the library has become a pillar of the Hasbrouck Heights community.

“I love it when I see families that are thrilled to come. Yes, they’re excited to grab their books for school, but they’re also thrilled to come and visit with animals, or do art, or just play video games with us,” said Herman.

“Anybody who hasn't been to the library in a while might not realize that libraries have become community centers. We take a lot of pride in that,” Herman added.

To learn more about the Hasbrouck Heights Public Library and events that are being offered, visit https://hasbrouckheightslibrary.org/ .

Jenna Mattern is a rising junior at Loyola University Maryland, but is originally from Hasbrouck Heights. She is majoring in Communications with a specialization in Journalism and Digital Media. At Loyola, she works as a Resident Assistant and Tour Guide. She is an active member of Omicron Delta Kappa, a leadership honor society. Additionally, she is a member of HerCampus, which is a national magazine that has a chapter through Loyola. In her free time, Jenna works part-time at a bakery and enjoys reading, cooking, and going to the beach.

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