Bureau of Library Development (BLD) FAQs

According to the Kellogg-Hubbard Library and other trusted sources, the following guidelines should be applied to StoryWalk® development:

1. Copyright Considerations

New books should be purchased so that the writers and illustrators get full benefit. The books cannot be altered in any way, the pages cannot be enlarged, scanned, or reproduced. Only mount them on card stock and laminate each page.

2. Book Selection

Selection of books focuses on minimal text, and a great story line. In general, look for books that can be used in different seasons and are nature-based. Also, books with a message of kindness and caring should be a key consideration.

3. Book Preparation

It is best to use 10 ml lamination pockets, as this thickness is strong enough to protect the pages and withstand strong winds, particularly if you are not using sign holders. Mount each two-page spread on card stock; put the page number(s), book title and author, and contact info on the back of each card. Lamination can be done by your local copy center, or you can purchase your own equipment and supplies and do this in-house. It is important to leave a wide margin of laminate around the edges of each page – this completely seals and protects the page from moisture which will ruin the page. Avoid stapling the pages directly to signposts, as the staples can rust. Instead, using industrial strength Velcro to affix the pages, if you are not using sign holders.

4. Spacing Recommendations

Spacing the signposts depends on the length of the route available, the number of forks or intersections it has and the number of pages in the book. Make sure that the readers know where to find the following page, it is best if the next page can be seen, and the signs are numbered. About 40 paces or so seems like a good distance between pages. A third or half-mile StoryWalk® works well. Pages should be at eye level for young children.

5. Forming Partnerships

You may want to find some other like-minded people in your community to work with on this project. A team approach offers different perspectives and experiences. This project combines the benefits of physical activity, time outdoors in nature, literacy, and family time. Because of that, many community partners may be interested in StoryWalks®, particularly local parks.

6. Keeping Track of Participation

It is recommended to place a guest book at the end of the StoryWalk® and ask readers to tell us the date, number in party, and any comments or suggestions that they have for the project. A loose-leaf binder in a weatherproof box along with pencils is a good idea. The boxes developed for real estate information with lids that can be mounted or attached to stakes work well for this. You can also include a hashtag or QR code to connect participants to your social media pages and gather feedback this way.