There's Something for Everyone at the Library

Back when I was a new mom of young kids, I was a little intimidated to bring them along to what had always been my sacred spot: the local public library. At the time, I was operating under a somewhat dated belief that the library required both silence and solemnity from its patrons, qualities small children are not known for embracing. I feared judgmental glares, wordless reprimands, maybe even a fierce "shush!" in my direction, should one of my offspring so much as whimper. As it turned out, I need not have worried. Times have changed and irate "shush"-ing is no longer in vogue at the public library. (If it ever really was.) Today's public libraries emphasize community over quiet, and the youngest patrons are just as welcome as anyone else. As an added enticement, most libraries provide a range of fun and interactive family programming designed for all ages, from toddlers to teens. There's something for everyone at the library! There are many benefits to introducing children to the library at an early age. When they borrow books and other items from the library, they assume the responsibility of returning them in good condition. Though absolute silence is no longer required at the library, it's good practice for kids to keep their voices down out of respect to their fellow patrons. They begin building an appreciation for literacy that will grow along with them, as well as for the library itself as a lifelong resource. Here are just a few of the offerings you might find at your local library: Social hour: Story times for babies and toddlers are standard on many library calendars. These events are a great way to expose pre-readers to the joys of stories and books, while also creating valuable socialization opportunities for both parents and children. Hang time: For school-aged children, libraries often offer activities such as movie nights, gaming get-togethers, crafting workshops and much more. For kids seeking a calm space to study, read or reflect, many libraries maintain quiet rooms or observe quiet hours. On-site experts: Librarians can play a key role in helping children to develop and foster a love of reading. When it comes to finding books that will resonate with and inspire different kinds of readers, they have a special kind of expertise. Beyond books: While book-borrowing remains a primary function, many libraries have expanded their inventory of items to loan out. Board games, puzzles, DVDs, audio books and more are widely available to card-carrying patrons. Some libraries even have items like sewing machines, musical instruments or telescopes to lend out! Passes to local attractions such as museums, parks or historical sites may also be available. The Monadnock region has no shortage of libraries to explore! Here's a few to check out: Keene Public Library, Keene, NHAs a certified Family Place Library (one of only two in the state!), Keene Public Library has numerous kid-friendly resources, including a Makerspace that offers maker activities for people of all ages. The library's calendar is jam-packed with fun events and classes, including "Messy Art and Playful Building;" "Preschool Storytime," and "Teen After School Movies." Each month, KPL hosts a free themed dance for families. James A. Tuttle Library, Antrim, NHA recipient of the Children's Literacy Foundation (CLiF)'s 2022-23 Rural Libraries grant, Tuttle Library hosts twice-weekly story and craft events for kids, after-school "Lego Mondays," and other community-building events, such as chili cook-offs. Shedd-Porter Memorial Library, Alstead, NHShedd-Porter Memorial Library leads a monthly book club called Team Read for kids aged 7 to 9. For younger kids, there's a weekly storytime session, and the library also offers a monthly "make and take" craft that can be picked up. On the last Saturday of each month, free cinnamon buns are offered between 9 a.m. and noon. Jaffrey Public Library, Jaffrey, NHThe Jaffrey Public Library's offerings include a seasonal Seed Library, where families may pick up free packets of seeds to start for their gardens. The library also has a Dial-A-Story service, where you can dial a dedicated phone number anytime and hear stories recorded by librarians. Frost Free Library, Marlborough, NHFrost Free Library hosts monthly family game nights, and has a selection of board games, puzzles and maker kits to loan out. With parental supervision, library-card holding kids have the option to check out a metal detector to aid in treasure seeking. Sarah Hall is the communications manager for the Children's Literacy Foundation, a nonprofit supporting literacy development in children up to age 12 throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. Learn more at clifonline.org.