The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) will be host to a real-life treasure hunt as a part of our Summer Reading Adventure. Find Your Voice and find the hidden caches as you go geocaching at each Library location. Sorry to get your hopes up, there is no actual money hidden amongst our shelves. But there is a fun Summer activity for all ages that will allow you to explore different parts of the Library, indoors and out.
Geocaching is a treasure hunting game that uses GPS technology. Players use a GPS device (such as their smartphones) to find hidden containers, called geocaches, which are placed in various locations.
Geocaches can be hidden anywhere, from parks and forests to historical landmarks and even in your own backyard. Geocaching is fun for participants of all ages and skill levels. “Geocaching is a great way for families to explore their surroundings and create fun memories together!” said Library assistant, Stef Caterer. This month, it can make for a great family outing at the Library, but many adults enjoy geocaching, especially if they like maps, geography, and treasure hunting (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t like that last one?).
Last year, more than 50 participants and their families joined the hunt and found hidden caches at the Library. “There was a great response to our first Library-wide geocaching event, so all three locations will be offering it again for the entire month of July,” said Librarian, Janet Stephens. But, beware, some geocaches are easy to find, while others are more difficult and require players to use their problem-solving skills.
“You will want to use the coordinates provided, but once you get within several feet of the exact coordinates, you’ll want to start looking around. Many factors could cause the location to be slightly off. The cache won’t be hidden in plain sight. Look up, down, below the ground, at eye level. For instance, if there is a tree 2 – 3 feet within the coordinates, then there is a good chance that the cache is up in the tree,” says Stephens.
What does every treasure-hunter need before they begin the search? A map! Geocaching clue sheets with listed coordinates are available at all Library service desks through the end of the month. Those who find at least three of the caches will earn prizes and be entered into a drawing for the grand prize!
Participate at all Library locations (Santori Library, Eola Road Branch, and West Branch) for even more chances to win. For information on the Library program, please contact us at 630-264-4117. To join the nationwide geocaching phenomenon, visit www.geocaching.com or download the app on your device. Explore the world around you and find the cash, woops I mean cache!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.