I just wanted to send out a quick reminder to everyone about Adventure Passes. This collaboration is a win for everyone involved – especially the community. Johnston PL users are some of the highest users, per capita, in the metro. The passes we purchase are similar in cost to the passes that individual families would purchase, yet our passes are used at least four to five times more than private passes are used.
It is vital that we very clearly communicate with library users how to use the Adventure Pass. Not specific to Johnston, there have been reports of people showing up at venues with just their library card in hand expecting to be admitted and families frustrated that a pass will only cover two of their three kids, etc. Those interactions are difficult for staff at the venues.
There will be times when the Adventure Pass isn’t a perfect fit for a family. I know I had someone very upset the other day because they have four kids. I tried to offer solutions such as going with another adult, but ultimately, that person was just upset. I simply pointed out that with the pass they (mom and four kids) would get in paying for three tickets less. I did my best to accept and process her disappointment here rather than place any blame on the venue.
When you mention Adventure Passes to new cardholders or help people reserve a pass, please do your best to clearly communicate the information below. While we cannot feel responsible for miscommunications, we do want to make sure we are doing everything we can to keep this partnership going for library users.
Thanks for your help!
- Passes are available for Johnston residents only on a first-come first-served basis and may be reserved up to 90 days in advance by cardholders 18 and older.
- The Library currently has membership with:
- Science Center
- Town Center Ice Rink
- Brenton Skating Plaza
- Blank Park Zoo
- Des Moines Children’s Museum
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
- Reiman Gardens.
- A printed pass is required for entry
- Passes for Blank Park Zoo, Science Center of Iowa, Des Moines Children’s Museum, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Brenton Skating Plaza (including skate rental) are for 2 adults and 2 children. Reiman Gardens allows 2 adults and 4 children- children must be from the same household. Town Center passes are for one person each (including skate rental).
- Passes may be reserved one time per year for each location
- The institution may check your ID. The name on the printed pass should match the name on the ID of the adult using the pass
- To cancel a reservation please call the library (515-278-5233) prior to closing the day before your visit.