by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
During April Vacation the Westwood Public Library (WPL) provided eager, animal-loving children, along with their caregivers, to gather together in the community room to experience “Joys of Nature!” This program was a live animal show, presented by Joy Marzolf. Marzolf was hosting two vacation-week shows, both on Thursday and each of which had full registration, as well as a waiting list. This particular program focused on springtime creatures that had either been awake all winter or were just emerging from hibernation.
Marzolf, who grew up in New England and has a BA in Biology, shared many interesting facts about springtime animals, including some of their sounds and calls. She also discussed each animal that she had brought along, relaying the need to take care of them and treat all living things with kindness. Then, after teaching the children how to properly touch the animals (gently, with two fingers), she carefully brought them around to the children seated on the floor in front of her. The kiddos all appeared to be thrilled with the experience of touching one of the critters, such as a small turtle. “This is awesome!” one young friend said to another in an excited whisper.
The Joys of Nature combines Marzolf’s 20 years’ experience with both captive and wild animals, as well as a background in wildlife photography, naturalism, and scuba diving, to bring outreach and education to all ages. She has presented at senior centers, schools, camps, and, of course, libraries.
“My son loves animals so much,” one attendee said right before the show. “I signed him up for this early because I didn’t want to miss out. He’s so excited to see what she brought today! And honestly, I am too,” she added.
More information on The Joys of Nature program can be found at thejoysofnature.com. WPL offers an extensive event calendar packed with activities for all ages. It can be viewed at westwoodlibrary.org.
