St. Charles Library and Park District Launch New Story Time Program

A new reading initiative named “Barnyard Books” will debut on September 18, 2023, at Primrose Farm in St. Charles, Illinois. This program is a collaboration between the St. Charles Public Library and the St. Charles Park District, aiming to enhance community connections through storytelling in natural settings.

The introduction of Barnyard Books marks an exciting expansion of the library’s outreach efforts. According to Kelly Stulgate, the Youth Services Department Manager for the St. Charles Public Library, this program fosters connections among community members, local environments, and the art of storytelling. “These are really wonderful opportunities to provide reading and literacy out in the community,” Stulgate stated. “It allows us to have a broad and diverse audience.”

The library has a history of integrating nature into its reading programs. For over a decade, librarians have hosted monthly story times at the Creek Bend Nature Center in the LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. In 2021, the partnership with the Park District led to the launch of “Twinleaf Tales” at the Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. Stulgate emphasized the significance of these programs, noting, “These story times get people out into nature.” After each session, participants can explore the surrounding natural areas, including the barnyard at Primrose Farm and various walking paths.

Engaging Themes and Activities

Each month, Youth Service Librarians Mackenzie Kavanaugh and Amelia Thomas collaborate to devise thematic content, games, and activities tailored for the story times. The librarians bring an assortment of books ranging from fiction to non-fiction, catering to the curiosity of young children. Stulgate pointed out that “a lot of kids love non-fiction books. Kids love facts,” highlighting the appeal of factual storytelling among young audiences.

The story time sessions incorporate interactive elements, including songs featuring scarves or shakers and games designed to engage participants physically. Themes often revolve around nature, animals, and seasons, creating a cohesive experience that resonates with the unique environment of each hosting location. “It’s a great partnership with the library,” noted Emily Shanahan, Manager of Nature Programs at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. She added that families can extend their visit by enjoying the outdoor play area or interacting with the center’s animals.

Broadening Community Engagement

The library’s outreach extends beyond story times at the park district and forest preserve. Staff regularly visit schools, preschools, and early childhood centers, helping to introduce library services to new audiences. Stulgate remarked that these outdoor story times often reach individuals who may not frequently visit the library, providing a vital introduction to its resources.

The benefits of these programs are not limited to children. Kavanaugh noted the social aspect of story times, stating, “It’s really good because we are connecting community members to each other.” This social outlet is particularly beneficial for adults, enabling them to forge connections within the community.

The partnership between the library and the park district also encompasses other community events. During the summer, the library hosts “Movies in the Park” at Pottawatomie Park, and the Hickory Knolls Discovery Center’s animal ambassadors frequently visit the library for special programs. Stulgate recalled the success of a recent event featuring turtle races, which attracted a full audience, and a visit from a bearded dragon that was equally well-received.

As Barnyard Books prepares to launch, both the St. Charles Public Library and the St. Charles Park District anticipate enriching the lives of community members through shared experiences in reading and nature. This initiative not only promotes literacy but also strengthens community bonds, making it a valuable addition to the region’s cultural fabric.