Around 1pm on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, the Statesboro library's newest literacy initiative, Story Walk, had its official ribbon-cutting ceremony on the picturesque McTell Trail, just behind the Statesboro-Bulloch County Library parking lot. Patrons gathered to begin the immersive story experience, led by Cindy Hatchell, Manager of Youth and Family Services.
Readers should head to the trail and start their walk near the dog park. Colorful panels are placed along the trail, leading children through a story with fun physical directives, such as "march to the next station."
The numbers on each eye-catching panel are clearly marked so readers can experience all of the plot elements from beginning to end and engage in the activities at each stop to add a little something extra to the peaceful trail walk.
This interactive display of literature comes at an ideal time for children, many of whom are on summer vacation from school. The Story Walk, along with other entertaining events the Statesboro-Bulloch Library offers, prevents the "summer slide" and keeps children reading.
At the same time, it offers families a chance to go outside, enjoy nature, and literally unplug by doing something that doesn't involve screens.
Hatchell is excited about the potential for children and families.
"StoryWalk helps build children’s interest in reading while encouraging healthy outdoor activity for both children and their grown-ups," she says. "Pages from a children’s book are displayed page by page on sixteen panels, installed along McTell Trail. Beginning at the back parking lot behind the library, you will follow the numbered panels around reading the story, all the while doing fun, simple activities. There is a QR code survey at the end where you can recommend a book that you would like to see displayed on the trail."
The library would like to thank the Friends of the Statesboro-Bulloch County Library for sponsoring the first StoryWalk. They would also like to thank the CIty of Statesboro for allowing them to place it at the McTell Trail.
"The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Storywalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson," Hatchell explains. "We hope our community enjoys this activity that encourages literacy, physical activity, and family togetherness."
The stories are on rotating display and will change regularly. The library encourages families to take pictures as they enjoy the story and send them to be featured on social media such as Facebook. Pictures can be sent to [email protected].
For more information about Statesboro Regional Libraries, please visit their website.
