By: Anna Stehling
A StoryWalk™ is a fun and creative way to combine literacy, physical activity, and family time by placing the pages of a children’s book along a walking route in your community. Whether you are trying to promote reading, encourage movement and physical activity, or activate public spaces, such as a park or downtown area, a well-executed StoryWalk™ can do all three.
If you are considering bringing a StoryWalk™ to your community, there are a few essential pieces to think about that can help ensure your project is meaningful, engaging, and impactful. Here are four key ingredients for success:
1. Partner with passionate community champions
A strong StoryWalk™ program starts with strong partnerships. Reach out to local individuals and organizations who are excited about literacy, family time, and physical activity. You’ll want people who not only care deeply about the mission but are also involved in their community and ready to pitch in. Their insight and energy will be invaluable as you plan, promote, and maintain your StoryWalk™.
2. Choose your location with purpose
While all StoryWalks™ promote reading and movement, your choice in the installation location can help in various ways. For example, if you want to bring new life to an underutilized public space, your StoryWalk™ can act as a tool to encourage visitors. If your goal is solely to encourage visibility and awareness for the program, you might choose a highly trafficked space that already draws crowds. Let your goals guide your location—it makes a big difference.
3. Use communication methods that work for your community
Getting the word out is half the battle. The right communication method depends on your audience. In some communities, social media is a great tool to build buzz and spread the word. In other communities, some rural for example, where internet access may be limited, simple tools like flyers at local grocery stores, churches, and schools can be more effective. The key is to test, learn, and adapt. Finding the right way to reach people often takes a few tries, but it is worth it.
4. Involve your community at every step
The more your community feels involved, the more successful (and supported) your StoryWalk™ will be. Collect feedback from users— this can be done using a variety of methods, such as evaluation forms, intercept surveys, or focus groups . You can also let community members get involved in decision-making, for example, letting them vote on future book selections or encourage volunteers to help with installation and upkeep. When people feel ownership, they’re more likely to engage, protect, and promote the program.
At its core, a successful StoryWalk™ is about more than just books and signage — it’s about the experience being provided to people. Thoughtful planning, community input, and consistent communication all work together to create a program that will last. Keep these four keys in mind if you’re looking to create a StoryWalk™ program that best serves your community.