Annapolis, MD - Officials from Anne Arundel County Public Library  (AACPL) and Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks today announced the launch of a new partnership that expands access to the county's parks. Beginning today, residents with an AACPL library card can check out a county park pass for free admission for up to seven days. 

The new county park pass provides free daytime general admission for one private, non commercial vehicle carrying less than 12 people at any of Anne Arundel County's six regional  parks: Beverly Triton Nature Park, Downs Park, Fort Smallwood Park, Jug Bay Wetlands  Sanctuary, Kinder Farm Park, and Quiet Waters Park. Each of the county's 16 library branches has two passes available for checkout. 

Observation Deck at Jug Bay Wetlands 

The passes do not cover facility rentals, camping, special events, ice skating sessions,  weekend entry reservations at Mayo Beach Park or Beverly Triton Nature Park, boat launch access at Fort Smallwood Park, photography sessions or other activities requiring separate fees. 

Fort Smallwood Park

"Public libraries are committed to expanding access—to information, experiences and  opportunities that enrich people's lives," said AACPL CEO Skip Auld. "By partnering with Recreation and Parks, we're making it easier for everyone to enjoy our beautiful county parks  while strengthening the connections that build healthier, more vibrant communities." Jessica Leys, Anne Arundel County Director of Recreation and Parks, added, "Parks and libraries are both essential hubs for community connection. By offering free park passes at our libraries, residents have another opportunity to access all of our parks to enjoy life, explore  nature and restore health and well-being." 

Quiet Waters Park Pond

Customers can place a hold through the library catalog to borrow a pass for seven days  and return it to any AACPL branch. Passes are not valid for special events and do not waive  reservation requirements where applicable. 

In addition to county park passes, AACPL's Library of Things includes items such as Maryland State Park passes, fishing poles, ukuleles, birding kits, Wi-Fi hotspots and more. For more information, visit www.aacpl.net/things.