Wood Library and Literacy Volunteers of Ontario-Yates (LVOY) have secured the funding needed to establish a new permanent Story Walk in Canandaigua’s Baker Park. Officials from both organizations look forward to breaking ground for the story walk in late spring 2018, with a kick-off planned for June. Funding for the project comes from the Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs of Canandaigua, the Friends of Wood Library, Dr. Felix Tao, an anonymous donor, and nearly three dozen individuals who responded to the call for donations during a fundraising promotion during ROCtheDay on November 28, 2017.
Communities across the country are creating permanent story walks as a way to encourage people to get outside and exercise while enjoying children’s books. The concept for a story walk in Baker Park was approved earlier this year by the Canandaigua City Council. “Our story walk will start at the playground in Baker Park,” explains Library Director Jenny Goodemote. “Permanent story boards will be installed along a walking path and each will feature pages from a book. The stories will change monthly, so readers have something to look forward to.”
Story walks are an innovative approach to building literacy, especially among emerging readers, and are a fun way for families to read together. People of all ages and reading abilities can enjoy this activity together. According to LVOY Director Paul Miller, “This initiative will be a great way for our adult learners to practice reading with their children or grandchildren in a fun, low-key setting.”
Wood Library is a full-service community library offering programs and services in a comfortable and safe environment where people can satisfy their curiosity, stimulate their imaginations, and connect to the local community and to the world.
Literacy Volunteers of Ontario-Yates recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who empower adults and families to improve literacy skills, achieve personal goals and participate fully in the workplace and community.
For more information, call 585-394-1381.