Peabody Public Library’s seasonal “story walk” approved for Columbia City park

Tiffany of the Peabody Public Library presented a plan to install a seasonal "story walk" along the Blue River Trail, and the Columbia City Park Board voted to approve the project.

Tiffany described the idea as a way to deconstruct a picture book into single‑page displays so "parents and kids can read together," adding that the Friends of the Library would pay for the stake‑in plastic frames while the library would prepare the pages and activities. She said the library would manage installation and check periodically for damage, with the displays likely installed at the start of summer and removed in winter or rotated by season.

Board members asked about placement, vandalism risk and whether to use temporary stake‑in signs or more permanent pedestals. Tiffany said temporary plastic frames allow a low‑cost pilot and that permanent pedestals (the kind used regionally) run about $650 apiece. Members suggested siting the displays in the pine‑tree area near the paved trail to avoid mowing and vehicle traffic and to keep families safe while reading. The board also discussed monitoring and removing any damaged signs.

After discussion, a board member moved to take a vote and the proposal passed by voice vote. Staff will coordinate dates, placement and on‑site park staff presence during installation.

The board approved the project at the meeting on March 23, 2026; staff will follow up with Tiffany on scheduling and any necessary permits or placement details.