Pooler Launches StoryWalk Experience to Promote Literacy and Community Engagement

Pooler Embraces Literacy with an Exciting StoryWalk Adventure!

In the charming city of Pooler, literacy took a delightful turn recently as the Live Oak Public Libraries launched its very first StoryWalk experience! Imagine strolling through the beautiful Tom Triplett Park, surrounded by nature while engaging with a story that resonates with so many of us—especially those who have felt the jitters of moving to a new place.

The star of the show? A fantastic children’s book titled “Snow in the Jungle” or in Spanish, “Nieve en la Jungle.” This heartwarming tale follows a polar bear named Snow, who is navigating the challenges and surprises of relocating to a whole new environment where “everything is different” from what she once knew. With a focus on the anxieties and hardships that come with moving, it’s a story that many can relate to, especially families that have experienced the shift of moving cities or even countries.

A Community That Keeps Moving

According to the Executive Director of Live Oak Public Libraries, Lola DeWitt, this new initiative is focused on promoting healthy living and literacy in a fun and interactive manner. “This is a new project for us, in collaboration with Chatham County Parks. We wanted to have something that was focused on healthy living and literacy,” she explained. This project was inspired by a movement started during COVID to keep families engaged while encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors.

The need for literacy initiatives like these is underscored by the evolving demographic landscape in the area, particularly the growing Hispanic population in Chatham County, which has surged by a staggering 66% in just the past decade. Recognizing the various languages spoken in the community, the StoryWalk features the beloved book in both English and Spanish. This dual-language approach is no accident; it’s a thoughtful effort aimed at making resources accessible to all families, especially those who speak English as a second language.

Engaging the Community

The library celebrated this event with readings of “Snow in the Jungle” in both English and Spanish, allowing families to connect with the story in a language they are comfortable with. As stated by Betsy McCullar, the Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships, “I believe in Chatham County schools, there are over 25 languages that they’re trying to compensate for, so you know, we’re trying to do our part to incorporate languages other than English in everything we’re doing going forward.” This laid-back approach to inclusivity shows the dedication to serving the community’s diverse needs.

What’s Next for StoryWalk?

But the fun doesn’t stop here. The library plans to switch out the featured book every quarter, inviting families to engage with new stories throughout the year. The next StoryWalk event is set for Saturday, Nov. 17, at Lake Mayer, and there are big hopes for expanding the reach of this initiative to other parts of Chatham County and nearby areas like Effingham and Liberty.

With a keen eye on accessibility, McCullar emphasizes that they “want the space to be public and free,” and they are carefully considering where to host future StoryWalk events. They are looking to team up with the Parks and Recreation Department for several upcoming initiatives to keep bringing fun and literature to the great outdoors.

As families gather to enjoy the beauty of nature while bonding over engaging stories, Pooler is playing its part in promoting literacy and a love for reading among its youngest residents. Who wouldn’t want a reason to take a stroll and enjoy a good story? So, grab the kids, lace up your sneakers, and mark your calendars for the next StoryWalk adventure—you won’t want to miss it!