Libraries are magical places, for many reasons. Most kids first experience a library through storytime. Storytime helps kids build literacy, language and listening skills. It’s also an opportunity to stretch their bodies and imaginations, all for free!
A good storytime can help foster a love of books and libraries, and that can bring a lifetime of joy. Here are some super storytimes at libraries in the Western suburbs of Chicago, including several options on nights and weekends for working parents. While you’re there, get your child a library card! September is Library Card Sign-up Month, and most libraries have cards for kids!
Language Stars Storytime at the Naperville Public Library
Bon jour! Hola! Ni Hao! This storytime shows kids that the stories don’t have to be in English. Teachers from Language Stars head to the library to share books, songs and activities in their native language at this 30 minute storytime. It is recommended for children ages 1 to 6 years old, but all ages are welcome and it takes place at all three Naperville Public Library locations at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesdays. See the website for dates. You can find dates here.
Saturday Storytime at the Lisle Public Library
Saturday morning cartoons are out and reading is in at the Lisle Public Library, which hosts Saturday Storytime for kids ages 2-6 and their caregivers who are up for having fun with books, stories and songs. I love this as an option for working parents who may not be available on weekdays. Registration is required, and you can do so here.
Family Storytime at the Glen Ellyn Public Library
Tuesday nights just got a bit more fun in Glen Ellyn with the 7-7:30 p.m Family Storytime. Construction at the library isn’t stopping storytime, but it does mean that they are held at different sites. Check the library website for location and details.
Oh, Baby! Storytime at the Helen Plum Library in Lombard
You’re never too young to check out the library. The tiniest of babies (birth to 15 months) are welcome at this drop-in program held on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Also check out their Stories to Grow On storytime for families with kids of all ages on Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. Check the website for dates and additional details.
Sensory Storytime at the Oak Park Library
Children ages 3 and older with special needs may love this storytime designed for them, with special supports like lap weights and fidget toys available. Classes are structured with Boardmaker schedules and include fun picture books and songs, along with fine and gross motor movement activities. Siblings are welcome, as are non-residents. They are held on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. through October 31. More info is available here.
Panera Storytime with the Aurora Public Library
Storytime can happen anywhere, as the Aurora Public Library demonstrates with fun Panera Storytime. Not only do kids get to hear a great story (or several), do finger plays and dance, but Panera is also providing the little ones with a free treat.
Panera Storytime through the west Branch takes place on Mondays from 9:30-10 a.m. at the Panera at 1330 Orchard Road in Aurora on Sept. 14 and 28, Oct. 19, and Nov. 2 and 16. Call 630-264-3600 to register.
Mz. Ginger and the Bookmobile visit the Panera at 740 N. Route 59 in Aurora from 10-10:30 a.m. on Sept. 21, Oct. 19 and Nov. 16. Registration is required and can be done online by visiting the library’s website and clicking on EVENTS to register.
These are just a few of the many, many storytimes offered at each library. Check out the websites to see the other fun offerings available and take full advantage of these amazing places this fall.
