MONROE — In late July, the staff at the Monroe Public library created a story stroll by separating parts of a children’s book: Cat’s Colors. Viewers read the story by following signs placed along the perimeter of the library’s lawn. This free and outdoor activity became a big hit with families. As a result, the staff at Monroe Public Library decided to create another one and expand off of it for the holidays.

Originally suggested by Andrea Schmitz, the Library’s youth services coordinator, Laura Schmiedicke, who is in charge of adult services, brought the idea to Main Street Monroe’s Events & Promotions Committee. Shop owners in attendance were very receptive to being a stop for the stroll. Chairperson, Tracy Hamilton, helped coordinate which stores would participate.

The story, Mr. Cookie Baker by Monica Wellington, will be told on 11x17 story boards in the windows of 16 different Main Street merchants. Merchants will range from eateries including Bullquarian Brewhouse and the Garden Deli, service spots like Hedeman Realty and the retail stores such as Toy Haus and Heartland Graphics. 

There will be a hidden picture game within the pages of the story stroll. If people complete it while the library is open, they can come by for an individually wrapped cookie baked by Monroe’s own Mr. Cookie Baker, Kurt Kline. Kline has Bäckerei Kline, a shop within a shop at Orange Kitten yarns. 

Main Street’s executive director, Jordan Nordby, highlighted how create the library has been throughout the pandemic with its planning and was thankful to give people another reason to safely explore the district during the holidays. 

“We are all about family fun activities and we’re proud to have another reason to showcase our businesses,” he said. 

Main Street has LIVE! Facebook shopping sessions scheduled through mid-December, is recognized by American Express as an official Neighborhood Champion during Shop Small Saturday, and oversees downtown decorations. The Monroe Public Library has an upcoming trivia night scheduled and is currently open four days a week.

The Story Stroll will be unveiled in time for Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 28. Complete details may be found at monroepubliclibrary.org.