Physical Considerations
The first thing to think about is location. Common green spaces have worked
well for
storytent events and programs. Successful storytents are located in a visible
spot, at a
distance from obvious dangers (traffic, machinery, animals, etc.). They
also need to be
located in a relatively quiet setting.
Crushed rock is better than
pavement, sand is better than crushed
rock, and grass is better than sand, for
providing a platform for the tent.
Residential spaces have been more
successful than commercial spaces.
Storytents may need to be sheltered
from the wind. We would suggest
trying out different locations to see
how much of the sub community your tent serves and to ensure you have the
best location.
Once you have determined the location (or locations if necessary), consistency
is
important. Children and families will benefit from a tent offered at the
same time in the
same place. Another consideration is whether children can access it freely.
Ideally, the tent
would be within walking distance for children and families who want to
attend. As well
there would be no artificial barriers, like admission fees, or late fines
on borrowed or lost
books.