My husband recently evaluated our property taxes and the various funds those dollars support. One of those funds is the public library … to the tune of almost $200 a year! Did you know that you’re most likely paying your local library too? If that’s not motivation to head down and check out a book or two, I don’t know what is!
Our family truly adores the library. The books, the librarians, the kid’s programs – they’re all the best! No doubt, the library is one of my most favorite community resources.
But, it can be a little overwhelming when you walk in. Where are all the good books? How do you get your hands on new releases? Are the classics all in one area? How about the board books for babies?
Of course, your librarian will be your greatest asset, but if you’re like me and prepping for a library stop by placing books on hold online before you go, let this list of our family’s recent favorites be your guide!
Flora and the Peacocks by Molly Schaar Idle — Believe it or not, but this book has no words! It’s plenty interactive though and your child will adore the giant fold out at the end.
Bears Wants More by Karma Wilson — A quarter of the way through this story, my son told me that he wanted to “read” the exclamation sentence that end each page. He proceeded to yell “Bear wants more!” at exactly the right time as I turned each page. I love stories that make reading extra fun.
10 Reasons To Love An Elephant by Catherine Barr — This is actually part of a wonderful series. Look for the turtle, lion whale, penguin, and bear variations. I hope many more animals are to come!
Sperm Whales and Other Deep-water Life by Sally Morgan — I always like to add some nonfiction into our library mix. This ocean exploration book gave us lots to talk about … there are some really amazing animals in our seas.
A Perfectly Messed-up Story by Patrick McDonnell — Peanut butter in a book? Oh yes! This story is perfectly messed-up and perfectly awesome. Your kids will love it!
With Your Paw In Mine by Jane Chapman — The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous in this sweet story about sea otters. We loved it so much it’s on our to-buy list now.
Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes by Eva Chen — What do you get when you mix inspiring women and a hefty dose of fun fashion? An adventure with Juno Valentine!
Violet the Pilot by Steve Breen — If I had to pick the best book of this entire list, this one is it! Violet makes an amazing sacrifice in her story that will inspire us all to think of others first.
Pocket Full of Colors by Amie Guglielmo — Mary Blair, Disney artist, led quite the colorful life and this children’s book shares it all. Another we hope to eventually buy.
The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds — Art is what you make it and this story will encourage your children to create no matter if they believe they are an artist or not.