5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

Posted April 4, 2025 in General Collections News, JMU Libraries News

As Earth Day approaches (April 22, 2025), JMU Libraries invites you to join us in celebrating our planet and exploring ways to promote environmental stewardship. Check out these opportunities—from immersive exhibits to thought-provoking discussions—for you to engage with environmental issues and take meaningful action:  

1. Explore Our Collections 

• Check out our newest book display, Bees, Butterflies, Other Pollinators, and You, now available in Rose Library and online.
• Explore our relevant book displays online:
  • The Anthropocene & Us: Navigating Humanity’s Impact on Our Planet
  • Climate Justice: Toward Resilient and Inclusive Futures for All
  • Nature’s Calling: Exploring the Great Outdoors in the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains
• Check out our Energy and the Environment research guide, created by JMU librarians.

2. Visit Our Seed Library 

• Donate or pick up seeds at Rose Library or Massanutten Regional Library anytime the buildings are open. Learn more about the JMU Community Seed Library. 

3. Learn about Environmental Justice and Sustainability

• Explore a New Ebook by JMU Alumni: Check out Introducing Environmental Justice Advocacy, a new JMU-published ebook co-edited by Communication Studies Associate Professor Dr. Matthew Brigham and SCOM graduate students Doreen Philip and Grace Smith with help from our Open Education Librarian, Liz Thompson. The collection was designed to support teaching environmental justice at the undergraduate and graduate levels and features original chapter contributions from seven graduate program alumni. 
• Take a Class: Students, prepare for the future by registering for courses that equip you with the tools and knowledge to address environmental challenges head-on. As you register for fall courses in April, consider the environmental sustainability courses offered by many JMU departments.

4. Learn about Sustainability Efforts at JMU 

• Student Showcase – April 26, 2025, 9am-3pm: Attend the College of Integrated Science and Engineering (CISE) Student Showcase to learn how CISE students are advancing sustainability when they present their projects at the 2025 Showcase. The combined event, which incorporates JMU’s Department of Engineering xChange and School of Integrated Sciences Senior Symposium, is held throughout King Hall and the EnGeo buildings.
• Faculty Exhibit – now through May 17, 2025: Explore the “A Better World, Together” exhibit, inviting visitors to consider paths toward sustainability. Located in the hallways of King Hall and the EnGeo buildings, this immersive showcase highlights JMU’s contributions to environmental sustainability, featuring the environmental work of more than 120 faculty members from diverse disciplines.
• Learn More: Connect with JMU’s Institute for Stewardship of the Natural World (ISNW), which coordinates the collaborative efforts of the university to promote environmental stewardship. Start by taking the Campus Environmental Stewardship Tour online or in person.

5. Participate in Community Environmental Efforts

• Earth Fest Farmer’s Market – April 23, 2025, 8am-5pm: Celebrate Earth Week at the JMU Dining Farmer’s Market at Warner Commons, where local vendors come together to showcase sustainable products. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere while celebrating the planet and the community. 
• Earth Day Community Conversation (April 28, 6-7:45pm): Everyone is welcome to join a panel and discussion with community and campus leaders about how JMU and the Harrisonburg community approach climate justice and sustainability. 
• Explore community events: The Climate Action Alliance of the Valley Community Event Calendar offers a great list of events throughout the year. 
• Learn more about Harrisonburg-area environmental organizations and initiatives.