StoryWalk has arrived in Delta.
The city last week unveiled the project at three locations, integrating reading and nature through the presentation of a deconstructed children’s book.
Display stands that feature a different page of a book are laminated and placed along a designated trail.
The city earlier this year entered into a memorandum of understanding to install the story boards with the Rotary Club of Tsawwassen for a project along the Grove Trail, the Rotary Club of Ladner for a StoryWalk along the Millennium Trail and the Delta Child Youth Committee and the Delta Community Literacy Committee for one at the North Delta Community Park.
StoryWalk was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpellier, Vermont, and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library.
It’s a registered service that has been installed in 50 states and 13 countries including, Germany, Canada, England, Bermuda, Russia, Malaysia, Pakistan and South Korea.
A Delta staff report notes that ideal books have minimal text and illustrations that do not cross the centre of the book, while having a great storyline.
“Books that can be used in different seasons and are nature based are more popular,” said Parks, Recreation and Culture Director Ken Kuntz. “The number of pages of the chosen books will determine how many display stands are required. Typically, about 40 paces between stands and a quarter of a mile for the route is a good distance for smaller children.
“Along with the pages, fun physical literacy actions can be displayed encouraging children to hop to the next station, or find items along the way. The first display stand will include a map of the walk, instructions, and links to social media for updates, as well as recognition of the project partners. The remaining display stands will include the deconstructed book pages, arrows and actions the viewers are required to take.”
The city installed approximately 21 weather-resistant display stands and the stories will change monthly.
