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
Fall Reads for Little Readers
Oh So Much to be Grateful For!
Enjoy a selection of picture books that inspire a sense of gratitude in kids! There is so much in this world to be grateful for, from our caregivers, to our school friends, to the sound of chirping birds and the first fall of snow. Let these books help guide your little readers to find out what makes them grateful.
Animal Hibernation and Overwintering
Join Us for Storytime!

- Event: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey at the Library
- Date & Time: Friday, October 30, 10:00am
- Location: Glendale Branch
- Description: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®’s Hype Crew is bringing the circus to Indianapolis through interactive appearances. Attendees will experience reimagined circus acts, jaw-dropping talent, and the high-energy excitement that has defined The Greatest Show On Earth® for more than 150 years.
- Register Here
- Event: Storytime at College Avenue – Babies
- Date & Time: Friday, October 30, 10:30am
- Location: College Avenue Branch
- Description: Mother Goose is on the loose! Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun! Each session is followed by playtime just for babies.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Cardio Drumming
- Date & Time: Friday, October 30, 10:30am
- Location: East 38th Street Branch
- Description: Cardio drumming is a fun, full-body workout that combines rhythmic drumming with simple dance and aerobic movements. In this program, participants use “sticks”, an exercise ball, and upbeat music to move to the rhythm – while improving their health and having a great time!
- Register Here
- Event: Play & Learn with Gymboree
- Date & Time: Friday, October 30, 10:30am
- Location: Michigan Road Branch
- Description: Babies and toddlers are exposed to sensory play, songs, and the beginnings of social play in this program with an expert from Gymboree! This program is open to babies and toddlers 6 months – 36 months. *This program will have an ASL interpreter.
- Register Here
- Event: Simple Strength Training
- Date & Time: Friday, October 30, 10:30am
- Location: Warren Branch
- Description: Each week participants will explore exercises that can be done with minimal equipment, including warm up and cool down. Attendees will learn basic strength training exercises, terms, and how to track process. This program is suitable for adults and seniors.
- Register Here
