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Successful libraries seek opportunities to extend library services beyond the physical confines of the library building to engage their service community where patrons naturally and frequently interact outside of the library. This enhances awareness of library services and improves the library’s value through frequent integration of library activities and services across many different community interactions and activities.
The Pontiac Public Library recently accomplished this important library mission with the aid of a RAILS My Library Is... grant that was utilized to create the first ever StoryWalk for the community of Pontiac. Grant funds provided 24 display pedestals, custom logo backer boards, and one year’s worth of books to display the first season. Additional private donations helped fund the installation expenses in the park.
Humiston Riverside Park, a popular gathering place for community events and families, was chosen for the installation to ensure that the feature would be easily accessible and enjoyed by the largest percentage of community members, from the youngest readers to the very young at heart. Placed along a nicely paved circular walkway, the arrangement of pedestals provides a nice leisure reading experience with a gentle flowing walk through the park. This circular pathway sits in the center of the park and is easily seen from the road making the StoryWalk a visible and recognizable feature from anywhere in the park.
On September 13th, 2025, the library hosted a grand opening event for the community and featured Oak Leaf by local Author and Illustrator, John Sandford, as the inaugural title. The event was well attended by the community and offered a special VIP viewing for the donors in the community to see the impact of their generosity. Additional Halloween and Christmas events at the park provided an immersive and creative reading experience for the community. Using QR codes on one or two pages at the walk, the library can track community engagement and feedback, as well as market library services and upcoming events. The feedback from the community has been outstanding with families coming from neighboring communities just to enjoy a fun walk in the park. To date, the library StoryWalk QR codes have been scanned over 400 times. Each scan allows for further engagement with the library through free printable activity downloads and library service and event announcements.
The Pontiac Public Library StoryWalk has been an incredible addition to library services, offering a wonderful new way for the library to engage with the community.
Today's blog post was written by Kristin Hozhauer, Library Director at Pontiac Public Library.
This project was made possible by the My Library Is... Grant.