County Library takes families on a wild adventure at Galaxy Nights Wildlife After Dark

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Promotional collage for “Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark,” showing stargazing, library activities, children and a perched owl. — *Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark brought families together for an unforgettable evening.*

Things got a little wild after dark as the San Bernardino County Library (SBCL) welcomed families to Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark, transforming the Lucerne Valley Janice Horst Branch into an after-hours destination filled with live wildlife, science, stargazing and hands-on discovery.

Held Saturday, Aug. 15, the event drew approximately 200 visitors from across the High Desert and beyond, with some traveling from as far as Pasadena to experience an evening designed to ignite curiosity and prove that learning doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

“Galaxy Nights gives us an opportunity to reimagine the library and create experiences that spark curiosity in children and families,” said Library Events Coordinator Jenni McCormick. “Wildlife After Dark brought learning to life by giving our community an opportunity to explore nature, science and the night sky in a fun and memorable way.”

One of the evening’s biggest attractions came courtesy of High Desert Falconry, which introduced guests to an extraordinary cast of creatures, including Nicodemus, a Eurasian eagle-owl; Blue Daba Dee, a blue-tongued skink; Ssspagetini, a Mexican granite kingsnake; and Saphira, a greenbottle blue tarantula. The encounters gave families an up-close look at wildlife while learning more about the animals and their unique adaptations.

The exploration continued as budding scientists dissected owl pellets to discover what owls eat, while aspiring astronomers turned their eyes skyward to explore the night through high-definition telescopes. Interactive activities and entertainment throughout the library rounded out an evening where science, literacy and discovery took center stage.

Galaxy Nights reflects SBCL’s commitment to taking learning beyond the bookshelf by combining educational resources with immersive experiences that encourage residents of all ages to ask questions, make discoveries and connect with the world around them.

The library extends its appreciation to San Bernardino County Regional Parks, Animal Care, the County Museum, the High Desert Astronomical Society (HiDAS), Avantus, High Desert Falconry, Moo & Brew Coffee, Drinkzilla, Abby’s Cakes and Moore, and Library staff for their partnership and support in making Wildlife After Dark a memorable experience.

With another Galaxy Nights adventure in the books, SBCL is already looking toward its next after-hours experience. Save the date for Saturday, Nov. 21, as Galaxy Nights returns with another opportunity for families to discover just how much there is to explore at the library after dark.

For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.

Additional County Update News – August 27, 2026