One of the most significant predictors of a lifelong reader is access to books. In the spring of 2020, the world shut down; this included libraries and access to books. As a library, we knew we had to pivot if we were going to keep books in front of kids. Our solution was to create a StoryWalk® along the walking path in Torrington. The StoryWalk® concept transforms beloved children’s books into a unique interactive experience. Each page of the featured book is placed on a sign along a designated path, allowing readers to enjoy the story while walking through the beautiful surroundings. It’s a fantastic way to promote literacy, exercise, and family bonding, all in one delightful package.
This StoryWalk® was only feasible due to the generous donation of a member of the Torrington community and the help of the City of Torrington. This innovative and engaging literacy project combines the joy of reading with outdoor physical activity, making it a perfect addition to the community and an excellent resource for families, educators, and children of all ages.
A year later, we took the step to put a StoryWalk® in three additional Goshen County Communities. This stage of the project came with grant funding from the Wyoming Arts Council, the Community Pride Foundation, and the Wyoming Community Foundation. The Goshen County Lodging Tax funded promotional materials for this stage of the project. This funding allowed us to place directional signs around the county and do a statewide promotional campaign.
Our most recent location of location for the StoryWalk® behind Trail Elementary School is strategic, encouraging students to explore the joys of reading in an outdoor setting. This initiative aligns perfectly with the school’s commitment to fostering a love for learning and encouraging healthy habits among its students.
To keep interest alive, volunteers regularly change out Goshen County StoryWalk® stories. Coordinating grab-and-go activity bags are available at the library. These activity bags support the stories in the Torrington StoryWalks®. In addition, children can complete the scavenger hunt in the library with illustrations taken from the books.
Maps for the StoyrWalks in Goshen County can be found here: StoryWalk® Maps
This project was funded for Goshen County Library in 2020 through grants from the Community Pride Foundation, Wyoming Community Foundation, Wyoming Arts Council, and Nan and Rod Hornbeck.
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.