This collection of book lists created by our staff can assist students with homework, help them find more books by their favorite authors, and aid parents in finding books for the youngest readers, among other things! We add new lists each month so returning readers can continue to find their next read! Find more reading recommendations for kids in our blog or enjoy storytime online.
Are you looking for MORE reading recommendations for kids? Your child’s new favorite book, handpicked for you! Hoosier Next Read is a personalized book recommendation service from The Indianapolis Public Library. Share your child’s reading preferences, and our Library staff will send you a custom list of 2–5 titles within 7 business days so you’ll always have their next great read ready. You can also visit us in person or online to get ideas for great reads for kids. For one-on-one help call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations. You can also call, text, or email ask-a- librarian!
Use your Library card to login to NoveList Plus to find recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning books.
Need help? Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text or email Ask-a-Librarian.
Staff Picks
All About Swimming!
This list includes jp (picture books) and a couple of jz (easy readers) about swimming and pools! Some of them are about the delight of swimming and some are about overcoming the fear of swimming and learning to enjoy it! Special note of thanks to former colleague Mr. Jared for providing the some of the annotations below.
Children’s Books about Boundaries and Consent
Whether learning to ask our playmates before we tackle them with a hug or learning to keep our bodies safe, it’s useful to understand personal space, boundaries, body autonomy, and consent starting from a young age. Here are some picture books and a few nonfiction books to help you to start those conversations.
Dress-up fun
Costumes and other fancy clothes are a great way to give your imagination a work out.
BK0025168330)
Juvenile Fiction about Moving
A collection of IndyPL juvenile materials focused on moving house — whether it be across town, the country, or the world. These materials are perfect support for young readers transitioning to a new home. This list is focused on school aged readers.
When a Kiddo Asks for a Kitten
What do you do when the child in your life asks (begs, pleads, cries) for a kitten? You can start by reading a few books about the care and love of cats and kittens. This list offers books at different reading levels, but mostly focuses on books to read together with preschool and early school-age children.
Join Us for Storytime!
- Event: Paws to Read at Michigan Road
- Date & Time: Saturday, August 01, 2:00pm
- Location: Michigan Road Branch
- Description: Beginning or reluctant readers ages 6-11 are invited to read to a registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. Its a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence. Register for a 15 minute session online or by calling the branch at 317-275-4370 ext. 4.
- Register Here
- Event: Pajama Storytime at Lawrence
- Date & Time: Monday, August 03, 6:30pm
- Location: Lawrence Branch
- Description: Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, songs, and fun. Stay after stories are finished for some literacy activities and play time.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Storytime at Michigan Road
- Date & Time: Tuesday, August 04, 10:30am
- Location: Michigan Road Branch
- Description: Preschoolers, toddlers, and their caregivers are invited for stories, fingerplays, crafts and activities. No registration is required.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Paws to Read at College Avenue
- Date & Time: Tuesday, August 04, 6:00pm
- Location: College Avenue Branch
- Description: School-aged children who are beginning or reluctant readers are invited to read to a non-judgmental registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. It’s a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence!
- Register Here
- Event: Paws to Read at Beech Grove
- Date & Time: Tuesday, August 04, 6:30pm
- Location: Beech Grove Branch
- Description: School-aged children who are beginning or reluctant readers are invited to read to a non-judgmental registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. Spaces are limited and registration is required. Please call 317-275-4560 or visit the Beech Grove Branch to register.
- No Registration Required.