StoryWalk

Families hooked on books can once again take a stroll along the Riverwalk as Naperville Public Library will bring back the popular StoryWalk program that merges the benefits of literacy, physical fitness and fun.

With the success of last year’s StoryWalk, which brought more than 200 people to the Riverwalk, the library, Naperville Park District and DuPage Children’s Museum have again partnered to host two programs this summer. The first program will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27 at the Riverwalk Grand Pavilion, 500 W. Jackson Ave. The second program will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25 at the new Knoch Knolls Park’s Nature Center, 320 Knoch Knolls Road.

Pages from “Mouse Paint” by Ellen Stoll Walsh will be displayed along a designated path at the June 27 program. During July 25’s program, the classic “Caps for Sale” by Esphyr Slobodkina will be featured. Maps will be available at the starting point, and participants can read and walk at their own pace.

“Reading should be associated with fun,” Rashmi Mehrotra, children services supervisor, said. “It should come naturally like strolling in the park. Nature walks stimulate curiosity, creativity and conversation. Walking is considered a recreational activity, and associating reading with it makes the reading experience positive and recreational.”

At the end of the StoryWalk, DuPage Children’s Museum will showcase portable versions of their educational exhibits and serve refreshments.