This Sunday afternoon marked a momentous occasion as the Reading Public Library unveiled its first StoryWalk at the 11th & Walnut Street entrance of Reading City Park. Families gathered to celebrate the Grand Opening, partaking in activities and refreshments while exploring the inaugural featured book, “We Laugh Alike,” written in both English and Spanish.
The StoryWalk concept, an innovative blend of literature and outdoor exploration, features laminated pages from a children’s book mounted in frames along an outdoor path. These pages guide readers through a narrative as they stroll the park, seamlessly integrating the joys of reading with the beauty of the outdoors.
Melissa Adams, Executive Director of Reading Public Library, expressed the significance of the StoryWalk project. In collaboration with Bethany Ayers-Fisher from the Reading Climate Core, Adams aimed to create a space that fosters family unity, promotes community engagement, and instills literacy skills.
“This is the first of what we hope to be many that we do in the parks throughout Reading,” Adams stated. “This particular story focuses on bridging the gaps between division and communities, showing how even though we might be different, we are similar in many other ways.”
The City Park StoryWalk encircles the new Splash Pad and the All Abilities Playground, allowing families to simultaneously enjoy the playgrounds and the unfolding story. The gentle walk, set along a shady pathway, offers a perfect reading length for each page, creating an immersive experience throughout the park.
As Adams highlighted the initiative’s intent to promote both physical activity and library engagement, she invited attendees to explore the library’s offerings. “If you enjoy the story here and you enjoy the activities we’re doing, please come to the public library,” she encouraged. “You can reach us on our website and check out all the activities and programs we have, along with a wide array of books and materials for families to enjoy.”
