Shoreline Education and Adventure Library

The Shoreline Education and Adventure Library (S.E.A.L.) is a new program at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center designed to resource you and your family with the tools needed for an inspiring and educational shoreline adventure. Adult and youth backpacks are available for borrowing during our open exhibit hours and are packed with useful tools and fun activities to take with you to the beach.

Get outside and explore!

How it works:

This program is provided at no charge to borrowers, though donations are always appreciated. The backpacks and everything in them is entirely funded by donations from our generous supporters.

S.E.A.L. backpacks can be checked out for the day during our open exhibit hours. You can check out with a valid government-issued photo ID with a current address (such as a drivers license, Tribal or military ID).

These packs are intended to be used within Fort Worden State Park. There is so much to see and do within the park, from tidepooling, to birdwatching, to beachcombing, and more. What will you get up to? See the park website for more details or ask a PTMSC staff member or volunteer for tips!

Tag us online:

We are excited to hear about your adventures! If you share your photos online, tag us!

Have feedback or questions about this program? Email Hillary Sanders at hsanders@ptmsc.org.


Where to check out a backpack:

Port Townsend Marine Science Exhibits at Fort Worden State Park, 502 Harbor Defense Way

Please note: A Discover Pass is required to park anywhere at Fort Worden State Park.

“What is in the packs?”

Adult packs include: 2 monoculars, a waterproof tidepool guide, magnifying glass, clipboard, paper, pencil box, colored pencils, regular pencils, pencil sharpener, Park Pocket Guide, and a feedback form.

Youth packs include: 1 pair of youth binoculars, a waterproof tidepool guide, magnifying glass, clipboard, paper, pencil box, colored pencils, regular pencils, pencil sharpener, Park Pocket Guide, and a feedback form.

“Is it free?”

In order to keep this resource accessible to all, there is no charge to use the Shoreline Education and Adventure Library. Donations are always welcome and appreciated.

“How do I check out?”

Borrowers can check out with a valid government-issued photo ID with a current address (such as a drivers license). IDs will be stored in a secure location at PTMSC and will be returned to the borrower at the end of the borrowing term.

“What if I don’t have a drivers license?”

We can accept other forms of ID such as Tribal or Military IDs. 

“Is there an age requirement to use the Lending Library?”

Those under the age of 18 will need a parent or guardian to check out items for them.

“How long can I keep the pack?”

The borrowing term will be one (1) business day, with the borrowed items due before closing on the same day they were checked out. Items may only be returned to the Exhibit during open hours. See PTMSC.org for current Exhibit hours or ask a PTMSC staff member or volunteer.

“Can I check out more than one pack at a time?”

Yes. Borrowers can check out up to 2 packs at a time. This is to ensure that items can be utilized by other borrowers. 

“Can I take the pack to Whidbey Island with me?”

No. Items are intended to be used in Fort Worden Historical State Park only and should not leave the park. This is to ensure that items are returned on time and can be utilized by other borrowers. 

Fort Worden State Park is a great place to explore everything from trails to tidepools. Ask a PTMSC staff member or volunteer if you have any questions about amenities or adventures in the park or visit the Park Office (daily, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

  1. The borrowing term will be one (1) business day, with the borrowed items due before closing on the same day they were checked out. Items may only be returned to the Exhibit during open hours. See PTMSC.org for current Exhibit hours or ask a PTMSC staff member or volunteer.
  2. Items are intended to be used in Fort Worden Historical State Park only and should not leave the park.
  3. The age minimum for borrowing is 18. Minors must have a parent or guardian check out items, provide an ID, and take responsibility as the primary borrower. 
  4. Prior to checking out an item, all borrowers must: (a) sign the Borrowing Agreement and Release of Liability; and (b) provide a valid government-issued photo ID with a current address.
    • IDs will be stored in a secure location at PTMSC and will be returned to the borrower at the end of their borrowing term. Borrowers will not be charged for the use of any item. However, PTMSC may charge fees in the event an item is damaged or lost.
  5. All tools are to be returned clean and in the same or better condition as they were issued, barring normal wear and tear.
  6. Borrowers are responsible for the cost of repairing/replacing lost and/or damaged items including backpacks, monoculars, binoculars, field guides, magnifying glasses, and clipboards. Damage may include but is not limited to: rips, scratches, stains, broken glass, dents, fire or smoke damage, mold, and water damage. The borrower agrees to accept PTMSC’s assessment of the condition of items. Fees must be paid in full before borrowing additional items.
  7. Items are considered overdue when they have not been returned by the end of the borrowing term. Borrowers will be contacted using the phone number and email provided on this Borrower Agreement. While PTMSC does not charge late fees, we ask that borrowers return items by the agreed upon time so that these resources can be available to everyone.
  8. If you know you will be bringing back an item past the agreed upon borrowing term, please contact us as soon as possible to let us know: (360) 385 – 5582 x114.

Resources

Guide to tidepooling

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Here’s a guide on tidepool etiquette so you can observe good manners while you’re in the home of intertidal animals and keep them (and yourself) safe.

Tide pool scavenger hunt

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Explore the beach at low tide with this scavenger hunt!

Remember to be a good tide pool visitor! Watch your step, leave plants and wildlife where you found them, and don’t roll any rocks around.

Low Tide Walk with PTMSC

Mark and Pam Adams joined a Low Tide Walk in the summer of 2023. This is their video!

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