Wood Dale Public Library District

The Wood Dale Public Library in Wood Dale, Illinois, will create outdoor programming that encourages families to engage in walking, exercise, and active play. Librarians will create special challenges that encourage participants to explore the library and outdoor space. The library will develop an immersive Story Walk and Nature Trail featuring grassy paths, native trees and shrubs, perennial flowers, and interpretive signage, available for self-exploration and guided walks. The children’s librarians will maintain the Story Walk and change it every 90 days. By creating an outdoor space that promotes a variety of activities, the library will address the negative health and fitness effects that children and families experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, when children had limited access to active play and organized activities.