If you haven’t heard, we are in the middle of a very special celebration (April 19–25, 2026). It’s National Library Week. And this year’s theme is “Find Your Joy!”
I find so much joy hanging out at the local library. As a children’s book author, I browse the books in the children’s section — for reading and “research.” And while there, it’s fun to see the way kids light up while reading a book. Libraries are a magical place where storytelling truly comes alive.
But before I dive into why you should grab the kiddos and head to your local branch, I have to give my “non-parent disclaimer.”
I’m an author who spends my days dreaming up characters like the ones in Pickleball Problems or Ethan Talks to Animals, but I’m not a parent. (Although, I was lucky enough to be a foster mom a few years ago. And the kiddo who was placed in our care absolutely loved going to the library.) Since I am not an expert in parenting, my goal here is to share what I’ve noticed as an author at the library, as well as a few links to articles by great resources, including libraries, of course.
1. The Design: For Tiny Explorers
Modern libraries are designed specifically for “tiny hands and big imaginations.” Unlike the “grown-up” section where everything is high up and serious, the children’s reading area is made for little ones in mind:
- Lower Shelves: Perfectly positioned so even a toddler can reach out and grab their own picture books for toddlers.
- Cute Seating: From animal-shaped stools to cozy beanbags that encourage kiddos to curl up with a book.
- Tactile Elements: Many libraries now include sensory walls or play tables that make the library feel like a destination.
Research shows that child-friendly environments foster a sense of belonging and encourage independent exploration. When a child can choose their own book, it builds confidence!
> Check out this article on the benefits of child-friendly library design to see how these spaces are carefully crafted for development.
2. Books, Books, and More Books!
There is so much variety at the library. Your kiddo isn’t limited to just one genre. They can explore:
- Educational books for toddlers about dinosaurs or space or trucks.
- Graphic novels that make reading feel like watching a movie.
- Diverse stories that reflect different cultures and experiences.
Access to variety helps children figure out what they actually like. It takes the pressure off “finishing” a book if it doesn’t click, and encourages them to take risks on new topics.
> Read more about the importance of reading variety for children and how it helps build a lifelong love of learning.
3. Storytime
If you haven’t been to a library recently, you are missing out on a great time for your kid: Storytime. It’s so fun to see a room full of kids listening to a story together, interacting with each other and the storytime reader.
Storytime teaches:
- Listening Skills: Following along with the librarian’s voice and the rhythm of the story.
- Socialization: Learning how to sit with peers and react to shared funny or exciting moments.
- Multi-sensory Learning: Most storytimes include songs and even a little bit of dancing.
> Learn more about the developmental benefits of library storytime for toddlers and preschoolers.
4. A “Third Space” for Families
Sometimes, we just need to get out of the house, right? The library is what sociologists call a “Third Space,” a place that isn’t home and isn’t school, but is a calm, quiet’ish place to feel safe and welcome. It’s:
- Cozy yet exciting: It has that “special destination” feel that is different from a park, playground or entertainment venue.
- A sanctuary: For many kids, the library is a quiet place where they can focus and feel independent.
- A community hub: A place to run into neighbors or make new friends who live nearby.
> This piece on libraries as a safe “Third Space” for kids explains why these public spaces are so vital for development.
5. Reading and Bonding With You
The library can provide a new space for you and your little one to be together without screens or distractions: just you, them, and a great story. Reading together can be a time to:
- Create positive associations: They will grow up remembering the library as a place where they shared time with you.
- Build vocabulary: Discussing the pictures and asking “What do you think happens next?” is a boost for their language skills.
- Share values: Choosing inspiring stories for children that talk about kindness, bravery, or curiosity helps you pass down the things you care about most.
> Learn how parent-child reading can bond and why it has lasting effects on childhood development.
Celebrate National Library Week
National Library Week is the perfect excuse to grab your library card, visit your local branch, and let your kids lead the way through the stacks. I’m so incredibly grateful for the librarians who dedicate their lives to putting the right books in the right hands, including mine!
How do you and your kiddo find joy in the library? What was your favorite book when you were a kid? Or better yet, what is your “kiddo’s” current favorite library find? Comment below with your responses — I’d love to hear from you!
Nico Waters 