Earth Day celebrations and events in North Carolina range from the coast to the mountains.

This year, Earth Day falls on April 22.

Earth Day was founded in 1970 to inspire awareness and appreciation for the environment.

Washington’s Brown Library will celebrate Earth Day at 4 p.m. Monday with a program designed for children ages 3 years old and older and their families.

The program will focus on environmental awareness.

“It’s going to be pretty simple,” said Terry Rollins, children’s librarian. “For any children who come to it, we’re going to have some stories and just information about what Earth Day is for those who may not know about it. Then, I’m just reading some simple stories with them. Hopefully, we will meet inside and then go the benches on the Van Norden Street side of the library, if the weather permits.”

Reservations are not required, but there is limited seating. Participants will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Terry Rollins, children’s librarian, at 252-946-4300.

Area schools have Earth Day events planned.

North Carolina residents are invited to join N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources employees to celebrate Earth at several Earth Day events on or around April 22.

The following is a list of some Earth Day events in coastal North Carolina:

April 20, noon  to 6 p.m.: Wilmington again celebrates Earth Day at Hugh MacRae Park. Attendance is free. Residents and visitors enjoy food, beverage, live entertainment, and a children’s zone. The celebration enables everyone to learn about local environmental issues and volunteer opportunities. The divisions of Coastal Management and Marine Fisheries will participate. More information is at: http://www.wilmingtonearthday.com/.

April 20, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Looking for family fun? Make plans to attend Earth Fair OBX II at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head. The event features arts and crafts, exhibitors with information on “green” initiatives and protection of marine life as well as ocean research and sustainable energy. Jennette’s Pier is operated by the N.C. Aquariums Division. Learn more about the event at our website, http://www.jennettespier.net/.

April 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Join more than 20 environmental educators at the Crystal Coast Earth Day Festival at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach. Visitors will be able to get close to whelks and sea stars in a touch tank, meet rescued wildlife and discover ways to protect the environment. Officials with state parks, marine fisheries and the aquariums plan to participate. The event is free. Want more information? Go to: http://1.usa.gov/14eJCQY.

To learn more about Earth Day events happening in your area, DENR compiles a calendar of events hosted by organizations statewide. People may view environmental education activities going on in the state at http://bit.ly/14eGVyT.