The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Storybook Trails gets permanent upgrade
Avon Storybook Trail receives permanent upgrade
The Avon Storybook Trail now has permanent posts as well as a new archway that designates the start of the trail.
A ribbon-cutting for the Storybook Trail took place Oct. 22 at “Every Child’s Playground” by the Avon Aquatic Center, 36265 Detroit Road.
The project is a result of a collaboration by North Coast Club Rotary, city of Avon and the Lorain Public Library System Avon Branch Library.
“This park in general is a huge attraction for the citizens,” said Clare Harasimchuk, recreation coordinator the city of Avon. “Putting this together with the Rotary and the library ... it’s extremely important to emphasize reading for young children.
“It’s been a great addition and has been an attraction. A lot of people have been using it.”
Joe Matuszak, a current member of the Rotary Club and its former president, said he was glad to see the project come to fruition.
“I want to thank the Library for changing the books out every month,” Matuszak said. “The city has really been a huge part of this. This goes back a year and a half ago when we started to talk about adding things to this park.
“We’re really excited that we were able to partner with the city and the Library to make this happen. When you walk through it, it’s really nice and the books will be switched out once a month.
“We’re excited to be part
of the community for years to come. I’m glad this is something that is educational that will bring families out to the area.”
Kim Edsell, youth services librarian for the Avon Branch Library, said the feedback has been very positive for the trail.
“When I’m changing the books every month, there is always someone on the trail giving compliments and saying how great it is,” Edsell said.
“Right now, we have a Halloween book, and then in November, I will be putting in a book about Native Americans.”
Avon Mayor Bryan Jensen said the trail is frequently used.
“We are just starting to get more and more kids that want to stop by and enjoy the swings, and then come over and read on the trail,” Jensen said. “We have the woods part where the trail
is; it’s kind of like the olden days, where you run into the woods to play while your parents watched.
“The idea is that we still want to add another piece in the open area here that is like a two-story thing where
the kids can climb. So, there is more we want to add to it.
“But, this was the part that kind of brought you back to your childhood with the Storybook Trail and the History Walk.”