By Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera
In Buffalo and Erie County, we are fortunate to have great cultural, educational, and recreational institutions. As our children head towards the end of the school year, I would like to take the opportunity to highlight ways for families to take advantage of these spaces during the summer months.
With 37 branches and the Library on Wheels Bookmobile, the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library is a staple in our communities. Our libraries offer free Wi-Fi, public computers, and the ability to borrow sports equipment, movies, tabletop games and of course books! Our libraries also connect people to literacy services, as well as health, wellness, parenting, and career resources, with friendly staff to help anyone find what they need.
Libraries provide a welcoming space with a full schedule of programing. Library cards are free to residents of New York State. Visit a branch to apply or go to www.buffalolib.org/library-cards. You can also check out events at your local branch by visiting www.buffalolib.org/whats-happening.
On that note, your free library card also serves as a ticket to discounts and specials at destinations across Erie County. Use your library card VIP (Very Important Perks Pass) to receive free general admission for up to four people at the Buffalo History Museum, or for two dollars off general admission at Explore & More Children’s Museum. Other VIP partners include the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Penn Dixie Fossil Park & Nature Reserve plus many more!
For a day of outdoor fun, consider visiting one of Erie County’s Parks or Forestry areas. With miles of trails for hiking and biking, tennis courts, and picnic areas, there is so much to explore. Our five Heritage Parks now feature adaptive playgrounds and all shelters are now equipped with universal picnic tables to accommodate wheelchairs. In addition, we have made the waterfront more accessible to all by installing beach matting at Bennett Beach Park for individuals using a wheeled device or who have difficulty traversing the sand. Our parks are here for everyone to enjoy!
Our Park Rangers have been hard at work planning weekly events for the upcoming season. These free events offer the opportunity to observe and learn about the nature, wildlife and geology of Erie County parks while enjoying time outdoors. You can view the full schedule and learn how to prepare at www.erie.gov/parks/events.
For working families, our local Boys & Girls Clubs offer affordable day camp options at locations throughout Erie County. I have had the privilege of visiting campers at Camp TeBeCe on Grand Island the past two summers. It was wonderful to see campers making memories and building confidence under the guidance of their mentors. Go to www.bgca.org/get-involved/summer/ to find the camp closest to your zip code.
Another great Erie County partner, Say Yes Buffalo, also offers camps for Buffalo Public School Students at 30 locations throughout the City of Buffalo. Registration for these camps, which include academic support, physical activity, breakfast/lunch and field trips, is now open. During the first two weeks of open registration, Say Yes will prioritize the applications of students with economic need. Information is available at www.sayyesbuffalo.org/summer.
I wish all our families, students, teachers, and school staff a wonderful end to their academic year and look forward to an exciting summer for all in Erie County.