Audiovisual Library

The TLC has more than 100 videos, DVDs, and CD-ROMs about a variety of science topics, including insects, weather, habitats, and environmental issues. Educators may borrow up to two audiovisual items for two weeks. A refundable $25 deposit is required for each audiovisual item.

National Geographic Book Packs

Check out our series of National Geographic book packs! Packs contain books from National Geographic Publishing on a variety of science and social studies topics including life science, earth and space science, government and more. These leveled book packs are currently availablefor emergent, early, fluent, and fluent plus readers (grades preK-3) and may be checked out for up to two weeks. A refundable $25 deposit is required for each book pack. Click here for a list of all availablebook packs.The TLC also offers National Geographic book packs for grades 3-8. These nonfiction books cover a variety of life science, physical science, and nature of science topics.

Inquiry Kits

The Nature Museum's Inquiry Kits contain books, activity ideas, videos, posters, specimens, models, and other materials to supplement your classroom lessons! Many kits available are provided from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and contain bilingual components. Educators may borrow one Inquiry Kit for two weeks for a refundable $50 deposit. 

Available kits include Aquatic Illinois (IDNR), Birds (IDNR), Butterflies, Chicago Wilderness Biodiversity, Climate Change, Field Trip Pack (IDNR), Illinois Fossils (IDNR), Insects and Spiders (IDNR), Invasive Species (IDNR), People and Animals from Illinois' Past (IDNR), Plants, Prairies (IDNR), Reptiles and Amphibians, Tree Trunk (IDNR), Wild Mammals (IDNR), and Zebra Mussel Mania Traveling Trunk.

EnviroScapes

EnviroScapes are portable, interactive, table-top models of landscapes designed to help students explore watershed concepts, threats, and conservation issues. Topics include wetland functions, non-point source and storm water pollution, and hazardous waste management. Each model includes the landscape, materials, instructions, and activity ideas. EnviroScapes may be checked out for two weeks for a refundable $50 deposit.

Available EnviroScapes include Hazardous Waster, Water Pollution and Wetlands.

For more information on the TLC, call 773-755-5112 or email TLC@naturemuseum.org.