Take a walk through a story at Wannamaker County Park

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) has partnered with Charleston County Parks and Recreation (CCPRC), in conjunction with Healthy Tri-County, to promote a love of literacy, exercise and the great outdoors through the installation of a StoryWalk around the lagoon at North Charleston Wannamaker County Park. The StoryWalk will officially open to the public during a free kickoff event from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19 with games, songs, activities and a special storytime.

The original StoryWalk Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vt., and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalks offer a fun way for book lovers of all ages to exercise their bodies and minds by following a path marked with sequential pages from a children’s book. Officials with CCPL and CCPRC felt that this project was an excellent fit for the Charleston community.

“The paved path around the Wannamaker lagoon is the perfect place for children of all ages to enjoy a whimsical book along with a walk in the woods,” said Amy Evans, Operations Manager for Wannamaker County Park. “This will be a fantastic new activity for our guests to enjoy.”

The first installment at Wannamaker County Park features “From Head to Toe” by Eric Carle. This interactive book includes vibrant collages and simple instructions that highlight the importance of listening, exercising, and taking on a new challenge. CCPL will update the StoryWalk each quarter with a new picture book and associated activities, and participants can take a survey for a chance to win a copy of the featured book.

“We’re always trying to think of new and exciting ways to engage, inspire and educate,” said Devon Andrews, CCPL Strategic Programming Manager. “We’re excited to work with the county parks to bring this fun and educational family activity to our community.”

StoryWalk is free with park admission during normal operating hours. For more information on park fees, hours, location and more, visit ccprc.com. For details on this and other CCPL programs and events, visit ccpl.org or follow the library on social media.