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Why are Katmai's bears so fat? [in person only]

Date: Tue, Oct 13, 2026

Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Venue: Main Library – Innovation Lab, Durham

Price: Free

Category: Community

This event registration is for the in-person event ONLY. For the virtual event, please visit: https://durhamcountylibrary.libcal.com/event/17616246 Fat Bear Week devotees, assemble! Join us for a live (virtual) program with a Katmai National Park and Preserve ranger to learn about the ecosystem of the Brooks River inside Alaska's Katmai National Park and Preserve. This mile-long stretch of water supports sockeye salmon, a keystone species. These fish are the secret to the success for not only the birds and mammals that call this area home, but also the trees and plants along the riverbank. The ranger will talk about the ecosystem and take questions for about 30 minutes. Afterward, stay for more bear learning and crafts! This program will be in the 3rd floor Innovation Lab and is geared toward tweens and older, but younger patrons are welcome too! Best for elementary-age and up. If you have any accessibility questions or accommodation needs, please contact us at Maker_STEAM@dconc.gov. We ask that all requests be made at least 2 business days prior to the event to ensure we can provide the best accommodations possible.

Raleigh Mom Club — Raleigh, NC

Community · Durham

Why are Katmai's bears so fat? [in person only]

“Request any needed accessibility accommodations at least two business days early.”

When
Oct 13
Tue, Oct 13, 2026
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Ages
Check ages with the venue
Price
Free
durhamlibraryfreefamily friendlyregistration requiredkid friendly

Why are Katmai's bears so fat? [in person only] is a free library program where kids can learn about the Alaskan wilderness from a real park ranger. This event takes place in the third-floor Innovation Lab at the Main Library in Durham. The session starts with a thirty-minute virtual presentation and question-and-answer session with a ranger from Katmai National Park and Preserve, followed by themed crafts and activities. The library recommends this program for elementary-age children, tweens, and older kids, though younger siblings are welcome to attend. It is a smart weekday outing for curious kids who love animals and science. You get to tap into the excitement of Fat Bear Week with educational activities and crafts, all without spending a dime.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this program free to attend?
Yes, this library event is free for all attendees.
What age group is this event for?
The program is geared toward tweens and older, but it is best for elementary-age children and up. Younger visitors are also welcome.
How do I request accessibility accommodations?
You can email Maker_STEAM@dconc.gov at least two business days before the event to request accommodations.

Last updated

FREE

Oct 13

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Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Why are Katmai's bears so fat? [in person only] runs Tue, Oct 13, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

Getting There

Main Library – Innovation Lab is in Durham, NC. Open in Google Maps.

More events at Main Library – Innovation Lab →

What to Bring

Nothing but the kids — this one's free, with no tickets to buy.