Literacy-boosting initiative can be viewed from June 10 to September 3
MONTCLAIR, NJ (May 28, 2025) — Families can once again enjoy Walk + Read Montclair, a literacy-boosting initiative consisting of storybook pages lining walking paths. And, this year, based on the enthusiastic reception to the StoryWalks in three parks last Summer, Walk Read has added a fourth location. In Brookdale, Crane, Nishuane and Watchung parks, families will encounter a different, unfolding children’s story, page by page as lawn signage, until they reach the end of the path. This initiative is free to enjoy any time of day, and is a partnership of the Judy Weston Garden, Montclair Public Library, and Montclair Public Library Foundation.
The four children’s books selected are:
- “The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear by Don and Audrey Wood, installed in Brookdale Park
- “What I Like About Me ” by Allia Zobel Nolan installed at Crane Park
- “Big Tune: Rise of the Dancehall Prince” by Alliah L. Agostini, installed in Nishuane Park and
- “Tricky Chopsticks” by Sylvia Chen, installed in Watchung Park
“We are committed to supporting students, families, teachers and the entire community on their reading journeys in engaging ways like this,” says Montclair Library Director Radwa Ali. “And we are excited to increase the reach of joyful reading opportunities through Walk Read Montclair.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony to kick-off the festival will be held on June 10, at Watchung Park at 10:30 am. Everyone is welcome to attend. Other events including storytimes and Summer Reading club tie-ins will also be programmed.
“We are looking forward to another chance to foster early reading through a walk in one – or four – of Montclair’s wonderful parks ” adds Elly Meeks, The Judy Weston Garden Director of Programs and Community Engagement.
For more information about Walk Read Montclair and Montclair’s literacy programs, go to montclairlibrary.org/reading/.
About the Judy Weston Garden
The Judy Weston Garden at Watchung Park is a vital tribute to a late, great friend of Montclair offering the community a place to reflect and connect.
About the Montclair Public Library
Founded in 1893, the Montclair Public Library serves the residents of Montclair, New Jersey. It has two facilities: the Main Library at 50 South Fullerton Avenue (open seven days a week) and the Bellevue Avenue Branch at 185 Bellevue Avenue (open six days a week). In 2023, the Library saw 170,000 visits; circulated 390,000 items including books, eBooks, movies, Wi-Fi hotspots, museum passes, tools, and recreational objects; and welcomed 22,000 participants in a wide variety of programs that reflect Montclair’s energy and diversity. Visit montclairlibrary.org for hours of operation and current services.
About the Montclair Public Library Foundation
The Montclair Public Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides support and advocacy for a strong public library in Montclair, NJ. The Board and staff raise funds year-round for library programs, events, collection enhancement, staff development, special projects, and other critical needs that exceed municipal funding. The vision of the Foundation is to enhance and expand the library’s role as a community pillar; to ensure free and equitable access to resources; and to ensure the future of our library as a robust center of literacy, economic opportunity, life-long learning, discovery, and community life. Please visit montclairplf.org for more information.
About StoryWalks
This initiative is based on the concept of a StoryWalk®, which was created in 2007 by Anne Ferguson and the Kellogg-Hubbard Library of Montpelier, Vermont, to “promote early literacy, physical activity, and family time together in nature.” Since its inception, StoryWalks have appeared in communities across the U.S. and worldwide including Canada, Europe, and Asia.