Looking for a fun way to get your children outdoors while encouraging a love of reading? The Denison Public Library and the Denison Parks and Recreation Department have partnered to create a unique program that does both.
StoryWalk at THF Park combines outdoor exercise with literacy by transforming a walk along the park's trail into an interactive reading experience. Deborah Wise, Youth Services Librarian for the Denison Public Library, believes it is one of the most creative partnerships between a library and parks department you'll find.
“We take a 32-page children's picture book and spread it out across 16 kiosks along the walking trail at THF Park,” explains Wise. “At each station, young readers find two pages from the story. They read those pages and then walk to the next kiosk to continue the book. Before they know it, they've completed the trail while reading an entire story. It's a great way to get kids outside, exercising, and enjoying a book. It's also a wonderful family activity, especially on pleasant mornings.”
The program began during the COVID-19 pandemic when library staff searched for ways to engage children safely while encouraging physical activity and literacy.
“We wanted to create an activity that got kids outside and moving while still practicing their reading skills,” says Wise. “The response from parents and children has been overwhelmingly positive. It's common to see families walking the trail together, with parents pushing strollers and helping children read along the way.”
While the library's primary goal is to promote literacy and lifelong reading habits, the partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department has made the program even more successful.
“We did experience some setbacks early on when our first stations were vandalized,” Wise says. “Fortunately, local high school shop classes stepped in and built permanent, weather-resistant metal kiosks that have worked beautifully. We've received tremendous support from our Parks and Recreation Department, and we look forward to continuing that partnership.”
To keep families coming back, the featured book changes each month. This year's selections have included Superworm by Julia Donaldson and Walter Finds His Voice by Ann Kim Ha. Upcoming books include Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall, The Secret Life of Squirrels by Nancy Rose, Picture Book by Dog by Michael Relth, and Squash and Pumpkin by G.G. McQueen.
In addition to the StoryWalk experience, the library hosts a monthly Saturday event tied to the featured book. These family-friendly gatherings include activities and treats inspired by the story. Past events have featured worm pudding, crocodile cookies, and popsicle parties. The programs are held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and provide another opportunity for families to connect through reading and play.
Wise is particularly excited about the future of the program.
“We love seeing families read together and become part of a vibrant community,” she says. “We're also hoping to include a bilingual book this year so even more children can participate and learn. It's truly a win-win for everyone.”
For more information about the StoryWalk program, contact Deborah Wise at the Denison Public Library at (903) 465-2720, ext. 2059, or email DWise@DenisonTX.gov