"Library Babies" by Puck, Art by Violet Lemay

Age Range: 6 months – 2 years

Summer is finally here and so are the summer reading programs at our local libraries!  Community librarians put a lot of effort into providing extra family programming and most give you a free book to keep if you sign up for their summer reading program. "Library Babies" is a love letter to libraries in baby-safe board book form. With vibrant illustrations and simple text, it’s a nice introduction to what a first trip to the library may look like for your little one. It reminds the reader that libraries aren’t just a place to hold books, but a place to gather for story time, play, and other fun activities. Libraries are the best place to get access to free physical books, and they also have audiobooks, music, eBooks, and movies to check out as well. Some libraries even have seed collections, cake pans, board games, and tools available to borrow and take home. In the back of "Library Babies" there are some great suggestions on how to make reading time more active for caregiver and child. It’s important to engage children with the stories you are reading to them by asking simple questions like “how many do you see?” and counting together. This simple addition to your reading routine can help boost confidence and encourage your child to ask questions about the world we inhabit. The publisher of "Library Babies" has made two free library-themed activities available. Visit the Duo Press website to create your own family library today! And make sure to visit your local library and sign up for their summer reading program for more fun activities and events for the whole family.