MONROE — Following many successes with outdoor activities and collaborative efforts, Monroe Public Library and Main Street Monroe unveiled another Story Stroll. 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. Two were organized in 2020. As a result, the staff at Monroe Public Library decided to create another one and expand off of it this year 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, owner of Heartland Graphics, helped coordinate which stores would participate.

The story stroll for this December will be based on The Button Book written by Sally Nicholls, illustrated by Bethan Woollvin. It has 20 pages which each page being displayed at a different business. Merchants range from JoAnne’s Dress Shop, Busy Bee Floral & Gift, and Luecke’s Diamond Center to eateries like Garden Deli and service spots. Schmitz emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. 

Main Street’s executive director, Jordan Nordby, highlighted how creative 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, which just concluded another round of LIVE! shopping nights, is recognized by American Express as an official Neighborhood Champion during Shop Small Saturday, and oversees all downtown decorations. Monroe Public Library is currently providing curbside services. 

The Story Stroll will be up through the end of the year. Complete details may be found at monroepubliclibrary.org.