Exotic animals visit Norwalk

NORWALK — A Norwalk Public Library program attracted more than 700 people on Thursday. Exotic Zoo, an educational wildlife program, was at Sofios Park to show families its wide range of animals. "During the summer, we try to do something with an animal," said Justin Brown, the library's youth services supervisor. "We've had cool animals before, but these guys have lots of cool animals." Children and adults gathered under and around the shelter at the park. The turnout was bigger than anticipated. "This was the biggest program we've ever had," Brown said. "It was a happy surprise." Caitlin Schwanger, of Norwalk, attended the program with her five children: James, 11; Clara, 8; Mason, 6; Charlotte, 4; and Emma, 2. It was fun for all ages. "(The library) has lots of great programs," Schwanger said. "It's amazing what they offer for free." The family visits the Norwalk Public Library at least once a week. They saw the Exotic Zoo event on the calendar and thought it would be a interesting program to see. "It was really neat to see the animals and learn some new things about them," Schwanger said. "I didn't realize kangaroos are really soft, so that was fun." In addition to the kangaroos, attendees were able to touch a tortoise, groundhog, skunk, alligator and snake. The crowd also viewed an owl and a monkey. During the program, wildlife educator Javon Stacks asked a few library employees to help with one of the animals he was getting ready to bring out. They stood in a line and were each given a grape. Stacks led a monkey to them and it quickly collected the grapes to eat. "It was a cool experience I will not forget," Brown said. The library invites people of all ages to register for its summer reading program. There's also a juggling and magic show at 1 p.m. on June 26 at the library. For more information about upcoming events, visit the library's website: norwalk.lib.oh.us