Natural England has secured funding to offer a number of English public library services up to £6,000 to develop and deliver a project which helps communities build their connection with nature, how they think about, feel about, and experience nature.

When we feel very close to nature, we recognise ourselves as part of the natural world, and value our relationship with it. We notice nature, seek it out, and feel happy when we are in it. Whatever our relationship with nature is, we can get closer. We can notice more, listen more, feel more, enjoy more, and care more.

Research shows that the closer we get to nature, the happier we are, the more worthwhile life seems, and the more we are willing to take action to help our wildlife and the environment. In the context of the problems our climate and wildlife are facing, closer relationships with nature are more necessary than ever before.

Natural England aims, through the Culture Nature England project, to work in partnership with library staff and share learning and thoughts to support communities and nature and connect with additional organisations to enhance nature recovery and share the benefits nature can bring to all.

Libraries interested in applying for the funding are encouraged to read the 'Invitation to Submit' file attached to this article. They can then fill in the application form (also attached) and submit the application via this link: Libraries Connected Funding Portal (smapply.io).