ELLINWOOD — When Kansas’ and Barton Counties’ stay-at-home orders are lifted, Ellinwood School/Community Library will be opening in phases. We will begin with curb-side services. This will be explained in more detail when that opportunity arises. We will post on our doors, at the post office, and several businesses around town, as well as in the newspapers, and social media. 

Ellinwood School/Community Library will be hosting a Story Walk, provided by the K-State Research and Extension Office, thanks to Donna Krug and Michelle Beran. A StoryWalk® is a fun, educational activity that places a children’s story outside to allow people of all ages to combine physical activity while reading a book. Conceived as a way to inspire parents, teachers, and caregivers to take young children out of doors for physical activity and to learn, StoryWalk® helps build children’s interest in reading while encouraging healthy activity for both adults and children. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Our first StoryWalk® will be “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” by Carol McCloud. It will begin and end at the library, and will be posted in our downtown business windows. The maps will be available at the post office and local businesses. 

Plans are being made for Summer Library. It will not look exactly the same as it has in the past, nor will it start at the usual time in June, but Mrs. Johnston and Miss Treva, along with the help of our high school volunteers will make it fun! This year’s theme is “Imagine Your Story - Mythology and Fairytales”. We will continue to let you know about our plans via the newspapers and social media. The entire ESCL Staff wishes all to stay healthy! We miss you, too! 

Sheri Holmes is the director of library and media services for the Ellinwood School and Community Libraries. She can be reached by email at sholmes@usd355.org.