Torontonian E. B. Cox considered one of Canada's foremost sculptors in stone was commissioned in 1974 to provide this feature. "Story-Time Bear" as he is affectionately known to staff and the public stands about 3 feet high and faces the wooded enclosure where he constantly beckons the animals to come and listen. The "Children's Woodland Garden" was a gift to the Niagara Falls Public Library from Mr. Bruce Leslie and Mrs. Wyn Leslie in 1974. The garden was renovated and renewed in 2002 by Mr. George Dalby in memory of his wife Winnifred Dalby, a long-time staff member.

On August 28th 2009 "Story-Time Bear" moved from the Children's Department to join the other animals in the Woodland Garden. You can still see him and he's still telling stories to the other woodland creatures.