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!
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.
Play Your Way! May 30 – August 1
Grab your friends and grab a book because it’s time for Summer Reading at The Indianapolis Public Library! The Library is the ultimate playground for creativity, imagination, and discovery whether you’re a beginning reader or a bookworm. Join the adventure, learn something new, and become a lifelong reader! Learn more about the 2026 Summer Reading Program.
Staff Picks
Let’s Play!
Explore the nature of play with these books! Research tells us that imaginative play is vital to the social and cognitive development of children. When children embody a character, animal or person, they try out new language. They are also engaging and developing theory of mind – which allows them to develop empathy. This list features books about play and books that encourage imaginative play. Have fun!
Family Diversity for Kids
A list of children’s books that focus on multiracial and multicultural families in honor of the anniversary of Loving v. Virginia. A variety of perspectives are included here alongside lovely illustrations.
Dress-up Fun
Costumes and other fancy clothes are a great way to give your imagination a workout!
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All About Swimming!
This list includes Picture Books and 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!
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.
Black Changemakers in Social Justice
July 18th is Nelson Mandela International Day. Created in 2009 by the United Nations to serve as reminder that individuals have the power to influence their societies for a more equitable future. Celebrate the day by exploring these selected juvenile nonfiction books pertaining to a handful of Black revolutionaries who used their voices to transform American society.
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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.
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.
Join Us for Storytime!
- Event: Pajama Storytime at Lawrence
- Date & Time: Monday, July 06, 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 07, 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, July 07, 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, July 07, 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.
- Event: Family Storytime at Nora
- Date & Time: Wednesday, July 08, 10:30am
- Location: Nora Branch
- Description: Families with children of all ages are invited to listen to stories, sing songs and participate in movement activities.
- No Registration Required.