Westfield Memorial Library in Partnership with DWC to

The Westfield Memorial Library, in partnership with the Downtown Westfield Corporation (DWC), will present Westfield's first StoryWalk between September 12 and 28. A StoryWalk is a family friendly event that encourages families to stroll through their communities, reading enlarged pages of children's picture books displayed in the windows of participating businesses and restaurants.

Two different books are featured on each side of town: the North side title is "Thank You, Neighbor!" written and illustrated by Ruth Chan, and the South side title is "Fall Parade" by Camelia Kay.

Maps showing the locations of the book pages are available only at the library, located at 550 East Broad Street. The exhibits can be viewed anytime until September 28.

Associate Director Liz Kennedy stated, "We wanted to celebrate National Library Card Sign Up Month, which is September, by extending the magic of reading beyond the walls of the library." She explained that StoryWalks are innovative collaborations between libraries and the communities they serve.

Daniel Taugher, executive director of the DWC, said the partnership was "a natural fit" and that one of DWC's goals is "to create memorable and engaging experiences that bring people downtown."

To kick off StoryWalk, author Ruth Chan will read from "Thank You, Neighbor!" on Saturday, September 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with an interactive slideshow, drawing demonstration and Q&A. The event is recommended for ages 3 to 8 and requires registration on the library's website.

The Westfield Memorial Library is located at 550 East Broad Street with hours Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

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Photo Credit: Ruth Chan

FAQ

Q: What is a StoryWalk?
A: A StoryWalk is a family friendly event that encourages families to stroll through their communities, reading enlarged pages of children's picture books displayed in the windows of participating businesses and restaurants.

Q: When is Westfield's StoryWalk?
A: The StoryWalk runs from September 12 to 28, 2026.

Q: Which books are featured?
A: The North side features "Thank You, Neighbor!" by Ruth Chan, and the South side features "Fall Parade" by Camelia Kay.

Q: Where do I find the book pages?
A: Enlarged pages are displayed in the windows of participating downtown businesses. Maps showing locations are available at the Westfield Memorial Library, 550 East Broad Street.

Q: When can I view the exhibits?
A: The book pages can be viewed anytime until September 28, 2026.

Q: Is there a kickoff event?
A: Yes. Author Ruth Chan will read from "Thank You, Neighbor!" on Saturday, September 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the library.

Q: What happens at the author reading?
A: The event includes an interactive slideshow, drawing demonstration, and Q&A with author Ruth Chan.

Q: Who should attend the author reading?
A: The event is recommended for ages 3 to 8.

Q: Do I need to register for the author reading?
A: Yes. Registration is required on the library's website.

Q: Which businesses are participating?
A: Over 30 downtown businesses are participating on both the North and South sides. A complete list is available at the library or online.

Q: Who organized this event?
A: The Westfield Memorial Library, in partnership with the Downtown Westfield Corporation, organized StoryWalk.

Q: Why is this event happening in September?
A: The library wanted to celebrate National Library Card Sign Up Month by extending the magic of reading beyond the library walls.

Q: What are the library hours?
A: Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.