Fairfield library begins outdoor program Stroller Storytime

An unusual amount of toddler banter was heard on Cedar View Trail in Fairfield earlier this month.

Parents, grandparents, and a bevy of eager toddlers strolled, rolled, and walked as part of the Fairfield Public Library’s newest offering: Stroller Storytime.

“I wanted a way for families to enjoy library activities, but also get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather,” said Fairfield Children’s Librarian Sara Martindale.

The program is offered most Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. at Cedar View Trail throughout the months of June and July. Attendees meet in the parking lot off 32nd Street and head towards the bridge over the highway (to the delight of the toddler contingent).

The roughly hour-long program takes families on a shady walk, interspersed with breaks for stories and perhaps a song or two.

“It was such a great and different vibe from our in-library storytimes,” said Assistant Youth Services Librarian Afton Pedrick, who led the program earlier this month. “Parents don’t usually get a chance to chat and talk during storytimes – but with stroller storytime, that’s part of the fun!”

“It’s so nice that’s it outside,” said Darin Dowd, who attended the program with her two children. “If it’s nice out, I want to be outside – not inside.”

Dowd says the stroller aspect of the program was a big help as well.

“It kept the kids contained, but entertained. And I got to enjoy the fresh air and company of other moms,” Dowd said.

This program is a part of the library’s summer reading challenge: Read Renew Repeat. To find out more about this and the library’s other programs this summer, visit the library website at fairfield.lib.ia.us, follow on Facebook, or call the library at 641-472-6551.

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