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!
BK0025168330)
Books for Kids to Celebrate Juneteenth (June 19)
June 19th is known as Juneteenth. The date is set aside to commemorate June 19, 1865, the day that the enslaved in Texas learned about emancipation – more than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
Celebrating National Donut Day! (June 7)
Did you know that National Donut is Friday June 7th. On National Donut Day we celebrate donuts. Check out these titles about donuts and other breakfast treats!
Time to make the donuts! #IndyPLKids
erc0001076114)
The Best Dads in Picture Books
They teach, play, protect, tease, feed, and adventure from dawn to dark. These picture book dads show how it’s done from sweet to ornery to laugh out loud! They are great fun for Father’s Day and every day!
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!
LGBTQ+ Friendly Picture Books Perfect for Storytime
Looking for storytime friendly picture books featuring LGBTQ+ characters? While many are wonderfully written, some picture books with LGBTQ+ themes are a bit too wordy for a traditional group storytime. Here are some great LGBTQ+ friendly picture books that are worth looking at if reading in a group setting.
BK0026809745)
Join Us for Storytime!
- Event: Storytime at College Avenue – Babies
- Date & Time: Friday, May 29, 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: Tales ‘n Play Storytime at Central Library
- Date & Time: Friday, May 29, 11:00am
- Location: Central Library
- Description: Stop in for some stories, music, and fun! Children ages 0-5 and their caregivers are invited to join Kid Central for a storytime! Afterward, all are welcome to stay for some open playtime.
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Summer Reading Kickoff Party at Pike
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 30, 10:00am
- Location: Pike Branch
- Description: Come join the fun at Pike to kickoff the start of Summer Reading at the Library! We will have prize giveaways, games, arts and crafts, and a storytime in the morning!
- No Registration Required.
- Event: Summer Reading Kickoff Party at Spades Park
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 30, 10:30am
- Location: Spades Park Branch
- Description: Join us for an all-ages family storytime at 10:30 a.m. and stick around for playtime, crafts, and balloon twisting from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Plus, sign up for Summer Reading!
- No Registration Required.