What’s happening: A new outdoor reading adventure is coming to the Memphis Botanic Garden in an effort to strengthen early literacy in Memphis. An
opening event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 28, in the Urban Home Garden at Memphis Botanic Garden.
What it is: Child-height panels featuring “Lola Plants a Garden” by Anna McQuinn are placed along a short path at the Urban Home Garden, encouraging children to read along as they walk outside.
What they’re saying: “I am so excited for the Memphis Botanic Garden to have its first Storybook Trail. The book, Lola Plants a Garden by Anna McQuinn, comes to life when read among the flowers and trees that surround the trail,” says Brianna Helms, membership and volunteer manager. “Mastering reading is an absolutely critical skill that begins in early childhood, and I feel honored we can be a small part of a child’s literacy journey.”
How it happened: First launched in 2018, the Storybook Trail program is a statewide initiative to strengthen early childhood literacy throughout the state. The installation at Urban Home Garden was made possible through a grant from the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation (GELF). This is the second such installation in Memphis, with the first being at T.O. Fuller State Park.
Why it’s important: “Our mission is to strengthen early literacy in Tennessee by equipping children with books and innovative literacy tools that foster lifelong learning,” says James Pond, GELF president and CEO. “The Storybook Trail program creates an enriching learning experience by combining literacy with physical activity, allowing children to connect with books while exploring the outdoors. We are deeply grateful to the Memphis Botanic Garden for their partnership in bringing a Storybook Trail to their community. Together, we’re expanding opportunities for children across the state to get outside, get active, and get reading!”
Memphis Botanic Garden is located at 750 Cherry Rd. in Memphis.
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