Great database project. Your use of screenshots, arrows, etc. was VERY helpful as I navigated through “What Tree Is This?”
Your example of what to do if you come up with the wrong tree/leaf was also helpful. Even as I was reading through the first of your steps and following closely with the database, I thought it would be useful to have a glossary of terms, and was glad to see that you included that in the tutorial. It might be helpful to put that at the start of the tutorial, so users are familiar with the terms before attempting to answer the questions.
Your project was posted in the “Public Library/Young Adult Interest” but it seemed like it would also be great for a middle school or high school classroom. Your instructions were easy to follow and I think students in grades 7+ could easily understand an assignment using this database. Your posted activities also seemed geared toward a variety of audiences.
I explored the “Mobile Version” of the database, which is basically a simplified version of the information, with limited color, text and navigation bars. For older audiences with access to an iPhone, Blackberry or Smartphone, the mobile version would allow them to take the database along on some of the nature walk activities you suggested.
A public library could also suggest the “Tree Forums” to teen and adult patrons who may be interested in posting questions through the Arbor Day Foundation message forum.
I would also think that local Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops might be interested in using this database as they earn their badges/patches. Many of them have nature components and the information in the database would be helpful for them. A public library could market the database to these organizations and encourage the troops to visit a branch to explore the features with the assistance of a librarian.
A public program for teens and younger children could also be developed within your branch in conjunction with Arbor Day. If you’re near a forested area or if the library’s property has trees, participants could be encouraged to gather leaves (or you could provide them) and they could work together to explore the database. Participants could head home with a free tree, etc.