Bowling Green, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has introduced new Storybook Trails at three rest areas in northwest Ohio, designed to inspire children and families to engage in reading while enjoying the outdoors. These trails, located at the Welcome Center on I-75 southbound in Wood County and at rest areas on U.S. 30 eastbound and westbound in Wyandot County, are part of an effort to promote literacy, healthy living, and a connection with nature for travelers taking a break on their journeys.
Storybook Trails and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
The Storybook Trails feature books from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that aims to foster a love of reading among children. In August, the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio distributed books to over 409,000 children from birth to age five across the state. Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine, a strong advocate for the program, hopes that these trails will encourage families to read together while traveling. Instructions on how to sign up for the Imagination Library at no cost are provided along the trails, making it easy for families to join.
“Mike and I love reading Imagination Library books with our grandkids, and we hope the Storybook Trails at our rest areas inspire more families to read together during their travels,” said Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine. “Rest areas provide a great space to let kids burn off some energy and learn at the same time.”
Free Books and Enhanced Rest Areas
To further promote reading, free children’s books are now available at the Wood County I-75 southbound rest area and Welcome Center, as well as at both the eastbound and westbound U.S. 30 parks near Upper Sandusky. These books were generously donated by ODOT employees during a recent book drive.
“Our hope is that kids will come to the parks, enjoy the Storybook Trails, and take a book with them,” said Pat McColley, ODOT District 2 Deputy Director.
The Wood County Welcome Center has also been upgraded with new amenities, including a paved dog walking path and additional picnic areas. Featured on the Storybook Trail here is “Milo’s Hat Trick” by Jon Agee. The Wyandot County rest areas showcase the stories “Violet the Pilot” by Steve Breen and “Dandelion Magic” by Darren Farrell.
Enhancing Ohio’s Rest Areas
ODOT is also enhancing rest areas across northwest Ohio and the state with new additions such as perennial plants, Ohio buckeye trees, music from local artists, and tourist information about attractions in the region. Storybook Trails can also be found in nearly two dozen state parks throughout Ohio, further spreading the joy of reading and outdoor activity.
These new Storybook Trails are part of a broader initiative to improve the travel experience in Ohio, blending education, recreation, and the beauty of nature to create memorable stops for families on the road. For more information about Storybook Trails and Ohio’s rest area plan, visit the official website.
