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LARPD and Livermore Library Collaboration Brings Permanent Story Walk to Sycamore Grove Park

Visitors to Sycamore Grove Park can now enjoy a permanent Story Walk installation, a collaborative project between the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District (LARPD) and the Livermore Public Library. The installation blends the joys of reading with the beauty of nature, offering an interactive outdoor experience for families, children, and park-goers of all ages.

Smiling child with a water bottle next to an informational sign on a trail.
The first page of the "Acorn was a little wild" story in fall 2024.

The idea for the Story Walk at Sycamore Grove Park began in 2022 when Christine Cardosi, an Open Space Interpreter with LARPD, contacted librarian Caitlyn Lung. Livermore Public Libraries had previously organized pop-up Story Walk events throughout the community. Inspired by these initiatives, Cardosi and Lung collaborated to bring the concept to Magpie Loop Trail near the Wetmore Entrance.

The first temporary Story Walk was unveiled in the summer of 2022 during the “LPL & LARPD Field Trip to Sycamore Grove Park” event. Its success sparked discussions about creating a permanent installation. Cardosi worked with Ranger Seth Eddings to develop the project, offering it as an Eagle Scout opportunity. Over time, three Eagle Scouts, Colin Smith, Julian Medrano, Adithya Krishna helped design and install durable display boards along the trail.

A sign reading "HELP NATURE" in a wooden frame with a dry grass field and trees in the background.
From the "Read, Renew, Repeat" Poster Contest

By spring 2024, the final display boards were completed and installed. To celebrate, the Livermore Public Library hosted a poster-making contest with their summer reading theme, “Read, Renew, Repeat.” The contest encouraged local youth to create artwork focusing on nature and conservation. The top 18 entries were showcased along the Story Walk trail in August, marking the grand opening of the permanent installation.

Currently, the Story Walk features a book about acorns, culminating with an educational poster highlighting the importance of oaks and acorns in Sycamore Grove Park’s ecosystem. The content will change throughout the year, offering new stories tied to seasonal themes and inviting visitors to return regularly.

A map showing the Wetmore Entrance to a park with parking, restrooms, picnicking icons, and the Magpie Nature Loop trail highlighted.
Magpie Nature Loop near the Wetmore Entrance

“We’re thrilled to see this project come to life and offer a unique way to connect literacy, art, and nature,” said Christine Cardosi. “It’s a testament to the power of collaboration between LARPD, the Livermore Public Library, and the local community.”

The Story Walk provides an engaging experience for families and underscores the importance of conservation and education, making it a valuable addition to Sycamore Grove Park. Visitors are encouraged to explore the trail, enjoy the featured book, and experience the synergy of storytelling and the great outdoors.