My Library Is part of a group of small libraries in rural west central Illinois that has been focusing on Early Childhood Literacy with the support of the Tracy Family Foundation. Prior to March 2020 most of the participating libraries had expanded our programming and services for children 0-5 and their families. Once the pandemic hit, all in person programs ceased. Many of us attempted some form of on-line story time, with limited success. Our passive programs, such as the Rubber Ducky Club, continued but we wanted another way to engage children and families.
One idea was to set up a Story Walk. There are various ways to do this. We took apart two paperback copies of a book, mounted the pages to construction paper and laminated them. Then we fastened the pages to yard signs with metal stands that stick in the ground. Families walk (or run) from sign to sign to read the book. Some libraries began in the summer, setting up the story in a local park.
Carthage Public Library District began in the fall and displayed story walk pages along a walking path around the lake on the local hospital’s campus, coinciding with one of their fitness promotions. Next, we set up a story walk during an outdoor event kicking off our capital campaign to raise funds to construct a new library building. We later set up that story around the Courthouse square in town, and then changed to a different book after two weeks. The weather caused some difficulty, with strong winds twisting and breaking some of the metal stands. So, this winter we have worked with the local businesses around the square and they have agreed to display the book pages in their front windows. One book was displayed in December, and another in January and February. The Chamber of Commerce strives to promote the local businesses, so activities that attract people to the square are welcomed. When I was swapping out pages for the new story walk, several of the business owners mentioned seeing families stop to read the book.
There are many benefits to our Story Walk: it adheres to the social distancing guidelines; it promotes reading and encourages families to spend time together; it provides an incentive to leave the house and get out in the fresh air; it is good exercise and allows children to burn off some energy; it increases foot traffic around the town square; and it’s a great partnership between the library and the local business community, drawing more attention to both.
Amy Gee, Director, Carthage Public Library District
