This week we have a library program I just love, though it’s not one most of us can do.

The Evanston Public Library has had a few pairs of peregrine falcons nesting at the library! And, because they are extra cool, you can watch a livecam of the falcons right here!

This is the second year with the long-time male (Squawker) and his newest companion, F.A.Y.  Fay is a very young mom, and last year they did not end up with any babies. But this year she’s more experienced, and she has laid three eggs (so far!). Many baby falcons have come from the nesting pairs at the library, and it’s just an excellent way to connect with a different group of people to show off the coolness possible in libraries!!

There is a group of falcon fans in the community: the Evanston Peregrine Falcon Watch group. They pay close attention to the falcons, and help them out when they are in their dangerous time learning to fly. You can follow all their good stuff on a Yahoo discussion board.

The Chicago Tribune recently published a very nice article about the falcons, including an update on the former library fledgling, Gigi, named after an EPL employee. He turned out to be a male, and is happily sitting on a nest of his own now, helping to raise the next generation of falcons!

You may not be able to have falcons at your library, but a library is a great place for small animals, fish, insects. It can be a fun way to connect your patrons, who may not be able to have animals at home, with the fun of having pets!! (And know that we would love to come visit assorted pets in your libraries!)