February 1st is Take Your Child to the Library Day! Created in 2011 to promote childhood literacy, this holiday is a fun and affordable way to spend a family weekend. Participating libraries host a wide variety of exciting free activities for kids of all ages to enjoy. These can include arts and crafts, games, movies, singalongs, book giveaways, and even magicians.
But if your local library isn’t participating, have no fear! Here are four ways you and your child can celebrate.
Get a Library Card
If your child’s never been to the library before, now’s a great time to get them started with their own library card. With a library card, your child can do more than just borrow books. They can also access other online resources, like Kanopy, a streaming platform specializing in films and educational content.
Read Aloud Together
Many libraries hold public storytimes for families. This can also be a great way to spend time with your child and help them practice reading. Read aloud with your child and have them share their thoughts about the story. Encourage them to try sounding out some of the words themselves. As your child builds confidence, you can take turns picking and reading books to each other, making new and cherished memories. And if reading aloud isn’t your style, libraries also offer a wide selection of audiobooks.
Go On a Scavenger Hunt
What better way to explore the library than with a scavenger hunt? Make a list of books for your child to find. You can start easy for younger kids and make it more challenging for older ones. Not only will they learn how to navigate the library, but they’ll have a ton of fun. They might even find their new favorite book!
Learn Something New
Whether it’s a cool craft or a new language, the library is a great place to learn! Check your library’s calendar for classes and workshops to take, or browse the shelves for fun ideas. You can even have your child play teacher for a day! Find a book on a subject they love and have them talk you through it. Make sure to ask plenty of questions!
Library visits are a wonderful family tradition that can help your child foster a lifelong love of reading. However you choose to spend your day at the library, your little bookworm is sure to have a rewarding experience.
To learn more about Take Your Child to the Library Day, click here and here. For more news, updates, and information on libraries, click here.
To find your child’s new favorite book, check out our Bookshop recs for young readers here.
