StoryTrail Opening at Jimmy Neil Smith Park May 11th
The official unveiling of the new Storybook Trail installation at Jimmy Neil Smith Park in downtown Jonesborough will be held on Saturday, May 11th at 11 a.m.
A collaboration between the Friends of the Jimmy Neil Smith Park, International Storytelling Center and Town of Jonesborough, the project has involved a great number of volunteer hours on the part of devoted community members who are engaged in investing in the Jonesborough community and increasing the quality of life of its citizens.
Inspired by a program begun by the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation, Jonesborough Residents Harold and Nancy Dishner provided the funding for Jonesborough to have this Storybook Trail. As an educator, Nancy is devoted to providing opportunities for children and families to engage in literacy development and enjoyable educational activities. Pages of a selected book are displayed in individual cases throughout Jimmy Neil Smith Park, along the walking path, that readers can explore and enjoy while also taking in the sights and sounds of the park.
The book to be unveiled on May 11th is Everyone Has a Story to Tell, written by local authors Rebecca Isbell and Marilyn Buchanan, with illustrations by Jonesborough’s own Bill Bledsoe. The Dishner’s chose to have this as the first book because it centers on Jonesborough’s storytelling tradition, teaches the reader the importance of knowing their own and others’ stories, and was written and illustrated by beloved Jonesborough residents. The books will change throughout the seasons, providing opportunities for families to visit the park regularly.
The event will be held in Jimmy Neil Smith Park, located just behind the International Storytelling Center, 117 W Main Street in downtown Jonesborough.
The community is invited to come and participate in this exciting event. Authors of the featured book will also be at the event. In addition, event goers will be able to enjoy refreshments, take in the scenes of the park and take a book home with them.
