Salisbury Launches Mayor’s Book Club and Storywalk Initiative

Salisbury is set to enhance literacy among local elementary school children through two new initiatives: the Mayor’s Book Club and the Storywalk program. The Salisbury Parks and Recreation Department announced plans to launch these programs in January 2026, aiming to foster a love for reading among young learners.

The Mayor’s Book Club will partner with the Rowan Literacy Council to distribute books to local elementary students. The initial cohort consists of 45 students from kindergarten to fifth grade, who will receive one book each month. Discussions will be led by Mayor Tamara Sheffield, who will engage students in exploring the material and encourage further interest in reading.

During a presentation to the Salisbury City Council, Keisha Coxe, the Parks and Recreation Director, highlighted the collaborative nature of the program. “We can come up with field trips, activities, and vocabulary exercises to really make that learning come to life,” said Christina Rary, Executive Director of the Rowan Literacy Council. Potential book selections include titles such as “What Can a Citizen Do?,” “Priceless Facts about Money,” and “Women in Science.” Rary emphasized the importance of ensuring the chosen books reflect the diversity of the Salisbury community.

Storywalk Initiative to Promote Reading Outdoors

In addition to the book club, Salisbury is introducing the Storywalk initiative, which will feature 20 pedestals along the greenway, approximately 1,500 feet from the starting point near Overton Elementary School and Knox Middle School. Each pedestal will display rotating story pages, allowing families and children to read while enjoying a walk. The project received funding from a Rowan County Public Health Grant totaling $6,620.56, which was approved by the city council.

The Storywalk stations will be spaced about 150 feet apart, extending to the covered bridge on the greenway. Rary noted the importance of including original artwork at these locations to keep the community engaged and motivated to participate. The initiative aims to address the lack of Storywalks in Salisbury and surrounding areas, with the nearest ones located in Mocksville and Statesville.

Coxe reiterated the critical need for literacy initiatives, stating, “Literacy gives understanding, and understanding oftentimes gives a voice to the voiceless.” Council member Harry McLaughlin raised questions about the use of QR codes on the Storywalk for tracking engagement and gathering feedback, which Rary confirmed would be implemented.

Community Involvement and Future Prospects

Mayor Sheffield expressed her enthusiasm for both programs, particularly in light of the recent pause of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in North Carolina due to funding issues. “We continue to talk about the success and the opportunities kids have the more books they have access to,” Sheffield stated. She highlighted the dual purpose of the Mayor’s Book Club: to provide books to children and to facilitate outdoor learning experiences.

Individuals interested in participating in the Mayor’s Book Club or volunteering can contact Alec Forney at the Parks and Recreation Department. With the grant approval, the installation of the Storywalk is expected to begin shortly, with further involvement opportunities available through the Rowan Literacy Council.

These initiatives signify a dedicated effort to improve literacy and foster a love for reading among Salisbury’s youth, ensuring that all children have access to the joys of literature.