Futurist and journalist Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods and six other books, speaks about what he calls the "Nature Deficit Disorder" in the fourth installment of Conversations on the Environment on Wednesday, April 23 at 7 p.m. at the Plaza Branch of the Kansas City Public Library, 4801 Main Street. Admission is free.

As a child growing up in Raytown, Louv explored the woods around his home. As an adult, he researched what's happening to today's wired generation of America's children and then coined the phrase "Nature Deficit Disorder" to describe the most disturbing childhood trends: the rise in obesity, attention disorders and depression.

Louv's body of research indicates that direct exposure to nature is essential for healthy childhood development and for the physical and emotional health of children and adults. More than just raising an alarm, Louv offers practical solutions and simple ways to heal the broken bond â?? and they are right in our own backyard.

A 6:30 p.m. public reception precedes the presentation. Seating space for this event is limited. Complete the form below or call 816.701.3407 to indicate your interest in attending. Free parking is available in the Plaza Branch's parking garage.