Bozeman Parks & Recreation, Bozeman Public Library, and MSU College of Education, Health, and Human Development partner to create event focused on movement, nature, and storytelling


BOZEMAN — Starting Sept. 20, readers from all walks of life will be able to enjoy stories in both English and Spanish via a new Literacy Trail in Bozeman Pond Park. Visitors will be able to stop at kiosks throughout the park during park hours of 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. to read a picture book a few pages at a time.

Members of the public are also invited to celebrate the installation of the Trail with story times and crafts on Friday, Sept. 20 from 1 to 2 p.m., and again when a new story is launched on Friday, Nov. 15 from 1 to 2 p.m. The events and stories are geared towards children ages 2 to 7 and their caregivers.

“This trail is a fun, free activity that people can enjoy on their own time and during our installation celebrations,” Library Youth Services Department Head Ellie Newell stated. “You don’t need to bring anything, and you can participate by simply following the trail from kiosk to kiosk. We hope everyone can join in!”

The Literacy Trail was created by a partnership between Bozeman Parks and Recreation, Bozeman Public Library, and MSU College of Education, Health, and Human Development. The first story is “Duck on a Bike” by David Shannon and stories will change every other month.

“We’re excited to be able to host these stories in the park,” Bozeman Recreation Manager Jamie Saitta said. “It encourages movement, time in nature, coming together and teaching kids that reading is fun!”

Those interested in visiting the Literacy Trail are encouraged to start at the north parking lot next to Lewis & Bark Park off Fowler Ave.