Are you looking for reading recommendations for kids? We can help! 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!
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.
You can also get reading recommendations online from NoveList K-8 Plus or Book Connections. Read book reviews, see “read alike” lists, browse starred reviews, and more.
Unearth Imagination
May 31 – August 2
Prizes for all ages! Summer is the perfect time to explore new worlds, discover exciting stories, and build a love for reading! These fun, engaging activities, events, and book recommendations are tailored just for you! Join us for an adventure in learning to become a lifelong reader!
Looking for a summer read? Browse our staff created book lists:
Picture Book Stars to Celebrate Independence & Freedom
Learn about the 4th of July, Juneteenth, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Thirteenth Amendment, and more! Read stories about family and neighborhood traditions all over the country from parades to fireworks to noodles to pie.
Picture Books Which Celebrate America’s Rich Cultural Diversity
Here are some books that touch on America as a Nation of Immigrants. These are picture books, but many are inspired by real people and true stories.
Set sail, tiny sailors!
For children looking for nautical reads this summer, add these picture books featuring boats or lighthouses to your holds list.
Let Me Share My Culture With You
Dive into these wonderful picture books that feature children sharing their culture with classmates, friends, and neighbors.
Beach Time, Excellent!
In this list you’ll find picture books that feature the many wonders to be found where sand and rocky shores meet ocean waves. Humor and history, family fun and sensory delights, gorgeous artwork and evocative descriptions spill from these pages. Enjoy a little respite from our mostly beach-less state, until one day your feet just might carry you to the edge of the world.
I’m Hungry!
Lets run a restaurant! These books are all about hamburgers and hotdogs and running a restaurant!
Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Picture Books
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Our staff share some of their favorite picture books from 2024 that they have seen – from beautiful to funny, we hope there is something for you and your littlest readers to enjoy.
Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Fiction for Kids
Some of our favorite new fiction titles published for kids. At the very bottom of the list, enjoy older bonus material: staff were also asked if they read an older title/not published in 2024 that they might also recommend.
Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Beginning and Early Readers for Kids
Staff sent in some of their favorite 2024 books that fall into our JZ and JE category. JZ are the books for young readers that are beginning to read on their own and typically these books have very controlled vocabulary and still a lot of pictures. (Think Piggie and Elephant; Bob books; Yasmin). JEs are books that introduce a longer narrative and sometimes chapters or vignettes; contain more content; characters that have depth and experiences. (Think Magic Treehouse or Bad Guy series)
Join Us for Storytime!
- Event: Preschool Tales ‘n Play Storytime
- Date & Time: Saturday, July 05, 11:15am
- Location: Central Library
- Description: Stop in for some stories, music, and fun! Preschool-aged children and their families are invited to visit the Learning Curve for a Saturday storytime. Afterward, all are welcome to stay for open playtime.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Paws to Read at Michigan Road
- Date & Time: Saturday, July 05, 2:00pm
- Rescheduled Date & Time: Saturday, July 12, 2:00pm
- Location: Michigan Road Branch
- Description: Beginning or reluctant readers 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. Participants may sign up for a 15 minute reading session by registering online or calling 317-275-4370 ext. 4.
- Register Here
- Event: Storytime with Professor Watermelon
- Date & Time: Monday, July 07, 10:30am
- Location: Warren Branch
- Description: Chomp, stomp, and roar through stories, songs, and activities with Professor Watermelon! This dinosaur storytime is perfect for children ages 3-6 and their caregivers.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Storytime at Lawrence – Pajama Storytime!
- Date & Time: Monday, July 07, 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, July 08, 10:30am
- Location: Michigan Road Branch
- Description: Preschoolers, toddlers, and their caregivers are invited for stories, fingerplays, crafts and activities.
- No Registration Required.