This June, the Old Jail Art Center was thrilled to partner with the Shackelford County Library for Storytime Studio—a beloved program that’s been bringing stories, laughter, and summertime fun to local families for years!
For the first time, OJAC staff joined the library’s team, the Study Club, and other community members and volunteers each Tuesday morning in June to help bring that week’s animal theme to life through hands-on crafts and activities inspired by that day’s special animal guest.
Each week, preschool and early elementary-aged children gathered to hear stories about a different animal, and then — the best part — they got to meet that animal in person! Local volunteers introduced their animals, shared stories from the ranch, and taught children about caring for these fantastic creatures.
After storytime and animal visits, OJAC staff led a coordinating craft activity where kids created fun and engaging projects tied to that day’s animal. From funky feathered Chicken Eggs to adorable Longhorn Headbands, each craft gave young participants a chance to create, imagine, and take a little piece of the experience home with them.
Throughout the month, it was a joy to watch young faces light up as they connected the stories they heard to real-life animal encounters and creative projects made with their own hands.
Janna Ledbetter, one of the program organizers, said: “This is such a great way to introduce kids to books, the library, and our community.”
A heartfelt thank you to the Shackelford County Library team, our OJAC staff, the Study Club, our animal-loving volunteers, and the families who joined us for these lively, memory-making mornings. We’re already looking forward to next summer’s storytime adventures!
Stephanie Swaim, Family & Public Programs