'StoryWalk' Library-Rec Partnership Links Literacy and Exercise

WEST CARROLLTON - The West Carrollton branch of the Dayton Metro Library has a new partnership with the city's parks and recreation department.

A kickoff was held Sept. 14 at Wilson Park, 1226 S. Elm St., and nearly 50 people attended.

The partnership will encourage literacy and physical activity through the StoryWalk project.

"South," written by Patrick McDonnell, will be displayed on posts along a half-mile walking path. The path starts near the playground.

"It encompasses exercise with literacy. It's a fun way to read," West Carrollton branch manager Karri Marshall said. "It's a great way to combine two valuable things. Right now we're the only library/parks and rec that are doing this in the area. We are really excited about it."

"South" is a picture book geared toward young readers that describes seasons changing. The program will be available through October.

"Christian (Mattingly) came to me and said he had seen an article in one of his parks and recs magazine about a (similar) park," Marshall said. "He thought it would be really cool if we did this in front of the library. I thought it was a great idea and thought we should do it in a park."

Mattingly, the parks and recreation director, is equally excited about the new project, as it is a fun way to get families into the park.

"People can expect to have a unique way to read a story to their children," Mattingly said. "Getting outside, taking a walk in the park and engaging their children's minds with a story - all in one trip to the park."

Depending on park patron reactions, the program may be expanded in the spring with differing locations and books.

For more information, call the library at 937-496-8962 or go online to www.westcarrollton.org.

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