Memphis River Parks Partners with Literacy Mid-South to Introduce Storybook Trail in Tom Lee Park
Free interactive trail takes visitors through a seasonal book along the riverfront
MEMPHIS—Just in time for summer break, Memphis River Parks and Literacy Mid-South are launching a storybook trail at Tom Lee Park, a collaborative literacy project designed to combine reading, movement, and outdoor family engagement.
Opening Friday, May 22, Memphis River Parks’ storybook trail has installed pages from a children's book—Shelby County A to Z—on child-height panels near Tom Lee Park’s Life on the River Playground along the blue walking path.
Through the partnership, Literacy Mid-South and Memphis River Parks plan to collaborate on literacy engagement, story selection, and community-centered programming connected to the trail.
“We are excited to add a new layer to our park with an interactive reading experience for families that showcases our county at the start of summer break, thanks to Literacy Mid-South's support,” said Ben Wilkins, Memphis River Parks’ Manager of Programming and Engagement.
“This project reflects Literacy Mid-South’s commitment to nurturing literacy directly in our community,” said Johnny Blount, Director of Community Action at LMS, “We are excited to partner with Memphis River Parks on a literacy experience that encourages families to read, explore, and connect together in one of our city’s most iconic public spaces”.
To celebrate the opening of the trail, Kifani Press, the publisher of Shelby County A to Z, and their literacy nonprofit, Kifani Kids, will be onsite on Friday afternoon, May 22 at 4:00 pm to distribute free books to attendees while supplies last. Free Art for All Summer Culture Passes will also be distributed to attendees at the Tom Lee Park playground.
WHO: Memphis River Parks + Literacy Mid-South
WHAT: Tom Lee Park Storybook Trail Opening
WHERE: Tom Lee Park Life on the River Playground
WHEN: May 22 | 4:00 pm