The Van Alstyne Public Library has released a new mobile application that enables residents and visitors to conduct a self-guided tour of downtown Van Alstyne. The app, known as STQRY Walk, provides access to local history, notable figures, and businesses without the need for a live guide.
The route begins at the crosswalk on Main Street and consists of 11 stops that take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Amber Rosenberg, the library's operations supervisor, stated that the initiative aligns with the library's goal of preserving local heritage and ensuring the public understands the origins of the town. Previously, these tours were conducted occasionally by volunteers who used cue cards to lead participants through the area.
The new digital format consolidates all that information into a single platform, allowing users to proceed at their own speed.
Sam Engel, a programming coordinator and technical assistant at the library, noted that the app replaces the physical folders previously used for guided walks. This change allows individuals to pause and engage with the historical content whenever they choose. Rosenberg added that the app now includes audio elements, such as music from the Carter Opera House, which were part of the earlier live tours.
The project was developed by the Grayson County Historical Commission and the Summerlee Foundation. Rosenberg indicated that the organizations covered the full cost of the project, meaning the library incurred no expenses beyond staff time. The printed materials for the original tours were created in 2022 and updated several times as downtown businesses changed. The development of the app itself took about a year.
