Story Trails

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2022

Story Trails is a program that brings original, illustrated stories for all ages to area parks for residents to read while meandering hiking trails. It was developed to provide story time and literacy engagement for everyone amid the beautiful parks in San Diego; to expand reading opportunities beyond the walls of libraries; to strengthen relationships between local government; and to safely bring communities together for a shared experience during the COVID pandemic. By hosting Story Trails in local parks, San Diego County Library facilitated both reading and physical activity to build stronger, healthier, and more engaged communities. The County Library partnered with San Diego County Parks and nine municipal parks to host 19 Story Trail sites from Oceanside to Imperial Beach, providing access to original stories in English and Spanish, written and illustrated by librarians, during the month of April 2021. During this time, Story Trails were offered to celebrate Día de los Niños, a celebration every day of children, families, and reading that culminates yearly on April 30. Due to its success, Story Trails continues at select parks was absorbed into another popular County Park program, which provides outdoor, healthy options to indoor activities.