StoryWalk®

What is StoryWalk®?

Pages from a children’s picture book are displayed along a trail for families to read as they walk. Simple activities ideas accompany the book pages promoting discussion about the plants and animals families might see along the trail or within the park. The project encourages early literacy, outdoor activity, nature awareness and spending time with family.

The project is a partnership between the St. Joseph County Parks and the St. Joseph County Public Library.

Where and when is it located within the parks?

St. Patrick’s County Park: July-early September 2018. Near the Berta Shelter, across from the Red Barn playground, through a portion of the pines that spell “St. Patrick’s.” Featuring: “The Busy Tree” by Jennifer Ward. Through beautiful illustrations, the book describes all the creatures that live in a single tree, from roots to branches, and introduces children to a variety of wildlife. Park Map

Bendix Woods County Park: September-early November 2018. In the prairie east of STUDEBAKER tree sign. Featuring “The Tall, Tall Grass” by Denise Fleming. Through the eyes of caterpillar, the book explores the sights and sounds of animals in the tall grass. Park Map

Is there a fee to participate?

There is no fee to enjoy the StoryWalk®, although a vehicle entrance fee into the park is in effect certain days and seasons. Hours and Fee Info  Families can visit StoryWalk® any time the park is open.

How was this project funded?

This project is sponsored by the St. Joseph County Public Library, St. Joseph County Parks, a NIPSCO Gives Back Environmental Action Grant and a donation from Del Meyer of Weichert, Realtors. It was made possible through an additional donation by Emilie Utigard and Mark Golitko in memory of Finn Golitko.

About StoryWalk® 

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. StoryWalks have been installed in 50 states and 12 countries across the world.