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Take Your Child To The Library Day

Introducing your little one to shelves of adventures, where curious minds and colorful pages meet in the cozy haven of books.

Children Education Hobbies & Activities Reading & Writing65

Marketing angleinferred

Drive family foot traffic to libraries and partner retail/media brands by positioning the day as a community-building moment that celebrates reading, learning, and local resources.

Relevance 65medium intent

Share nostalgic parent-child library memories and beloved childhood book titles to inspire multi-generational visits
Highlight local library events, book sales, and storytelling programs happening during the celebration week
Partner with children's book publishers and retailers to promote classic and contemporary titles featured in library collections
Encourage families to explore digital library offerings (e-books, audiobooks, movies, music) alongside physical visits

History

Nadine Lipman and Caitlin Augusta are co-chairpersons of the Take Your Child to The Library Day intuitive.

Nadine created the idea to make a fun way to bring community awareness to the library and all the resources and events that are held there throughout the year. The first day was celebrated in 2011 and has grown to include libraries all over the country.

Visitors of the day’s website will be able to learn about ways to celebrate the day, and why it is important to bring the community back to the library.

For years now libraries have faced funding issues and have had to get creative in their fundraising. This is the perfect chance to host events that can elevate the local library in the community’s mind. Some have even gone as far as celebrating a week instead of just a day!

How to celebrate

Head to the Libray

To celebrate this day, just follow the directions in the title and Take Your Child to The Library! Pack up and take the whole family to explore what your local library has to offer. Many libraries are right up to speed with technology and have both digital and hard-copy offerings. You may find movies and music offerings as well.

Enjoy Reading Classic Books

You can find books for the youngest in your family in the children’s section which no matter what city or town you are in is sure to have the same beloved authors from your youth. Fill up on Dr. Seuss, Clifford, Mother Goose and much more! If there is something you don’t find just ask your librarian and they may be able to get it. Young adults usually have a section to themselves to bridge that transition from children’s storybooks to the longer chapter books. Newer classics like Harry Potter and Twilight will be found here.

Participate in Library Events

If your library is taking part in the celebrations you may find reading groups, storytellers, book sales or other fun events to take part in. Remember that without your local library to help educate our children, there really isn’t anything to replace it. Give your children the same cozy memories that you were given and celebrate Take Your Child to The Library Day!

FAQ

How do regular library visits support a child’s reading and school success?

Regular library use gives children free access to a wide range of age‑appropriate books, which research links to stronger vocabulary, better reading skills, and improved school readiness. Public libraries also offer early literacy storytimes, homework help, and quiet study spaces, so children practice reading in different formats and settings while caregivers learn strategies to support literacy at home.

What makes a library storytime different from just reading aloud at home?

Library storytimes are intentionally designed by children’s librarians to build early literacy skills through a mix of reading, singing, talking, and play. Many use “dialogic reading” (asking questions, inviting predictions, and encouraging children to retell parts of the story), which helps develop narrative skills, listening, and expressive language in ways that complement reading at home.

How do public libraries help children and families who do not own many books or have home internet?

Public libraries reduce cost and access barriers by lending books for free and providing computers, Wi‑Fi, and curated online learning tools that can often be used in the building or from home with a library card. For families with limited resources, this means children can still read widely, complete school assignments using quality sources, and participate in enrichment programs without needing to buy books or pay subscription fees.

What is the best way to introduce a child to using the library catalog?

Librarians recommend starting with simple searches—such as a favorite author, character, or series—and then gradually showing how to search by title and subject. Many systems offer a special kids’ catalog with large book covers and categories instead of complex text searches; parents can sit with children, practice a few searches together, and ask librarians to demonstrate how to place holds and find items on the shelves.

How can parents help children use online library resources safely and effectively?

Parents can begin by logging in to the library’s “kids” or “databases for children” page and showing that these sites are chosen by librarians, unlike random web pages. Exploring child‑focused encyclopedias and databases together, using built‑in read‑aloud or translation tools, and discussing privacy (such as not sharing passwords or personal details on public computers) helps children learn to find trustworthy information while staying safe online.

Are modern children’s libraries still focused only on printed books?

Contemporary children’s services in many public libraries combine print collections with e‑books, audiobooks, educational apps, coding kits, and other hands‑on learning tools. Libraries commonly highlight technology access, digital collections, and creative programs alongside traditional storytimes, reflecting their broader role as community learning hubs rather than just book warehouses.

How do librarians organize children’s books so kids can actually find what they need?

Children’s librarians and catalogers adapt subject terms and shelving practices to match how children search and think, often using simpler language, series labels, and clear visual signs. Professional guidelines from library associations emphasize cataloging “for kids’ eyes,” so that subject headings, series information, and call numbers help young readers and caregivers quickly locate appropriate materials on particular topics or at certain reading levels.