Welcome to Kid City!
This page is dedicated to kids from birth to 8th grade. Our website is an extension of the great resources we offer in person at Kid City. Browse the calendar to see all the upcoming events for kids of all ages. Use the Recommendations for Kids tile to see our newest book suggestions from staff. If you need more personalized book recommendations please use Book Picks for Kids tile. Have a look at the Reading Challenges Tile to make sure your child is signed up for all current reading programs.
We hope you will come check out your Library and discover, engage, and explore our many play-based educational features. Our welcoming staff will assist you with registration, book recommendations, or a take- home craft. Kid City provides a space for you and your child to blast off into a world of fun.
Staff Picks for Kids
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The Littlest Yak: Home Is Where the Herd Is
Featured on the TODAY Show!
This heartwarming follow‑up to The Littlest Yak and The Littlest Yak and The New Arrival takes Gertie and her family to new pastures.
When the ice starts melting, it’s time for the yaks to move on and find a new mountain. Gertie’s mum tells her that home is about more than the things that you pack, but Gertie’s not so sure. She tries to squash and squeeze everything they own onto her sled.
But, oh no! It seems she’s left behind the most important thing of all . . . her baby sister, Dotty! All at once, the items she’s packed for this trip don’t matter much without Dotty, and Gertie realizes perhaps home isn’t about the things you have after all.
From the award-winning team that created The Littlest Yak, this second companion book following The Littlest Yak and The New Arrival shows our charming protagonist in a new situation that will be familiar to most readers—whether they have moved homes themselves or simply desire a sense of community and support through big life changes. The Littlest Yak Home Is Where The Herd Is will reassure young readers that as long as your loved ones are around, the feeling of home will follow you anywhere. -
The Little Engine That Could: 90th Anniversary
Celebrate the 90th anniversary of The Little Engine That Could with this all-time classic reillustrated by Caldecott Award-winning artist Dan Santat! A perfect gift for all the milestones in your life--from graduation to birthdays and more!
The kindness and determination of the Little Blue Engine have inspired millions of children around the world since the story was first published in 1930. Cherished by readers for ninety years, The Little Engine That Could is a classic tale of a little engine that, despite her size, triumphantly pulls a train full of wonderful things to the children waiting on the other side of a mountain.
This anniversary edition features the original text, all-new reimagined artwork and an introduction from Caldecott Medal-winner Dan Santat, and a special letter from Dolly Parton, award-winning singer-songwriter and founder of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. -
A Bear Is a Bear (except when he's not)
When Bear wakes up early from his hibernation, he can’t remember what he is! Is he a bird? Or a moose? Maybe a fox? Just when it seems like Bear won’t be able to figure it out, he finds his cave and decides another nap might help. Will Bear be able to remember what he is when he wakes up again in the spring?
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All My Stripes
A helpful story for kids with autism spectrum disorders as they follow a young zebra who learns to understand how he is different from the rest of his classmates.
Zane the zebra often feels different. He worries that his classmates don't notice his "curiosity," "honesty," or "caring stripes," just his "autism stripe." With the help of his Mama, Zane comes to appreciate all his stripes, including his "autism stripe," as the unique strengths that make him who he is.Includes a Reading Guide with additional background information about autism spectrum disorders and a Note to Parents and Caregivers with tips for finding support.
Excerpt:
All My Stripes provides readers a small yet enlightening glimpse into a day in the life of a young, smart, caring, honest, and curious zebra named Zane. Zane is experiencing challenges at school often associated with autism spectrum disorders. This story can serve as a teaching tool for caregivers—such as parents, grandparents, and teachers—to help other children and family members understand the various challenges individuals on the autism spectrum face on a day-to-day basis. Those that are highlighted in this story are discussed in more depth in the Reading Guide. -
Watch Out for the Lion!
Readers beware—there’s a ferocious lion in this book! The book warns that it has seen the lion already. First its bristly tail, then clashing claws, twitchy ears, fearsome fangs... and it’s lying in wait to turn any unsuspecting passerby into a child cheeseburger or rugrat ravioli.
But does a brushy tail always belong to a lion? When you touch the curvy claws, will they be attached to a paw? You never really know what might be lurking around the corner in this surprising story that challenges readers to face their darkest fears, and maybe even laugh about them. -
Taylor Swift
Learn about the glittering story of Taylor Swift! The talented singer-songwriter who dreamed of sharing her talent with the world.
Little Taylor grew up on her family’s Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania. Her life changed at six years old when she attended her first concert. Dancing and singing in the crowd as country musician LeAnn Rimes performed, Taylor fell in love with country music. Some of the kids at school didn’t understand, but Taylor managed to shake it off.
She took her first steps towards stardom by recording a demo of cover songs and sending it to record labels in Nashville, the home of country music. Yet while she enjoyed singing others’ songs, she knew all too well that she needed to express herself in her own words. When she began writing her own lyrics and melodies, her talent for putting feelings into words shone through.
After signing with a record label, she started working on her first album: Taylor Swift. It became very popular, very quickly. Soon, she had earned a number one single on the country music charts.
Next, she released her second album, a country-pop record named Fearless, it was a hit, and suddenly everyone knew her name. She won a Grammy and started to write more pop music for her albums—all the while keeping storytelling at the center of her work. Several albums and sell-out world tours followed. Despite the obstacles in her way, Taylor has always stood up for what she believes in and always believed in herself!
This powerful book will never go out of style. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Taylor’s life.
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling biography series for kids that explores the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.
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Force of Nature
A beautiful and hopeful story of how a young impassioned naturalist grows up to change the world. For everyone who cares about our fragile planet.
"An absolute joy to read." --Book Riot
"Gracefully written...pleasing to the eye and ear." --Kirkus Reviews
Rachel was a girl who loved
science and the sea,
books and writing
and all the creatures of the world.
Rachel was quiet,
a listener by nature.
But when she saw problems,
she could not remain silent.
Some people thought girls
shouldn't be scientists.
They thought girls
shouldn't use their voices
to question or challenge,
even to protect
all the creatures of the world.
Luckily Rachel didn't listen
to them.
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The Story of Barbie and the Woman who Created Her
A beautifully illustrated picture book about Barbie--the most famous doll in the world--and her visionary creator, Ruth Handler.
After noticing how her daughter played with "grown-up" paper dolls, Ruth Handler wanted to create a doll that would inspire little girls to use their huge imaginations and big dreams about their futures. While others told her it wasn't possible, Ruth Handler proved them all wrong by creating the most famous doll ever. This beautiful hardcover picture book will inspire children ages 3 to 7 to believe that anything is possible--especially with Barbie!
Since 1959, Barbie has shown girls that they can live their dreams. From an astronaut to a chef to a president, she knows that girls can do anything! -
Who's Afraid of the Light?
Fergus lives down in the deepest, darkest sea and is scared of just one thing ... the light! Fresh and funny narrative non-fiction from the award-winning Anna McGregor.
From award-winning creator Anna McGregor (author of Anemone is Not the Enemy) comes this hilarious tale of the deepest of sea creatures. Seamlessly combining humor, narrative, and non-fiction, McGregor introduces young readers to the wonders of the ocean's 'midnight zone', where no sunlight at all is able to penetrate. We meet Fergus as he hides from a parade of sea-creatures that use bioluminescence to find their way in the dark. At least, we think he is hiding ... or is it something else entirely?
This book is ideal for:
- Educators and librarians looking for humorous stories to use as a launching pad for further non-fiction investigation into the ocean environment;
- Parents and carers looking to combine narrative and non-fiction to entertain and educate their children simultaneously;
- Kids who just want funny books!
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This Is Not a Drill
Told through text messages, this timely story explores the real dangers kids face with humor, insight, and a ton of heart.
Ava is having a really bad day. Her parents are getting divorced. She just had a big argument with her two best friends. And she forgot to charge her phone... again.
To top it all off, while she is hiding out in the bathroom over lunch, the alarm goes off for a lockdown drill. Ava knows the rules. She has to get herself into a classroom, turn the ringer off on her phone, lock the door, and cover the windows. But all of the rooms have already been locked from the inside and there is no one in the halls.
Pretty soon she realizes there is an intruder in the building. This isn't a drill.
From the author of From Me to Youand House Arrest, comes this timely that explores both the effect of school lockdown drills and the relatable struggles of modern middle grade friendship.
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MapMaker
From Lisa Moore Ramée, author of the Walter Honor Award-winning A Good Kind of Trouble, comes her debut middle grade fantasy--an absorbing, imaginative adventure about a Black boy who has the magical ability to bring maps to life. Perfect for fans of Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky and A Tale of Magic.
When Walt and his family relocate to Blackbird Bay, Walt thinks it's the most boring place on earth. While his twin sister, Van, likes to spend her time skateboarding, Walt prefers to hide out in his room and work on his beloved map world, Djaruba. But shortly after their arrival, Walt discovers something extraordinary: He has the ability to make maps come to life.
Suddenly his new hometown doesn't seem so boring after all. And when a magical heirloom leaves Walt, his new friend Dylan, and Van stranded in the fantastical world that Walt created, he'll need to harness his new power to get them home.
But things are changing. People have gone missing, and it's clear that a malevolent rival to the kingdom--a fellow mapmaker--has nefarious plans for Walt. If he's not stopped soon, Djaruba could become nothing but a shadow of itself or, worse, gone forever. And if a mapmaker can destroy one world, could Earth be next?
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The Leaf Thief
Perfect for fans of Fletcher and the Falling Leaves, The Leaf Thief is a funny picture book that teaches kids about autumn, adapting to change, and the seasons.
Squirrel loves counting the leaves on his tree--red leaves, gold leaves, orange, and more. But hold on! One of his leaves is missing! On a quest to find the missing leaf, Squirrel teams up with his good friend Bird to discover who the leaf thief could be among their forest friends.
With vibrant art and captivating characters, the magic of autumn is captured beautifully on each page as readers tag along Squirrel's forest adventure. Is there truly a leaf thief afoot, or is something else going on in Squirrel's forest? A perfect exploration of change--both seasonal, and the anxiety that change sometimes causes. Bonus material explaining about the changing of the seasons. Poised to be a new fall classic.
Pick up The Leaf Thief if you are looking for:
A classic read for ages 4 and up
Back to school books, ideal for your classroom, homeschool curriculum, and more!
Seasonal and educational stories about the changing seasons
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I See Sea Food
Meet some of the wackiest creatures under the sea--creatures that look like food--through eye-catching photos and engaging text. This funny, informative book introduces readers to the egg yolk jellyfish, the lettuce sea slug, the chocolate chip sea star, and many more! Accessible text and engaging photos make this a very fun read.
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You Are a Reader! / You Are a Writer!
Two rhyming books in one that inspire and encourage children who are learning to read and write.
You are a Reader! / You are a Writer! is a book made to be read twice, once from the front and once from the back. Read one way, children will see all the joys that reading can bring--flip it over and they'll be inspired by the imaginative possibilities of writing!
With a jaunty rhyme that’s great for reading aloud and a diverse cast of characters at various stages of reading and writing, there is something for everyone here. Learning to read? Scan, sound, simmer, think. You can guzzle words and ink. You might stumble, you might sigh. But readers practice, grow, and fly! Learning to write? Wake, watch, wonder, plot. You can weave with words and thoughts. Still staring at an empty page? Every writer knows that stage. Ask "What if?" Change your view. Try a pen--or stick--that's new. But writers read and draft, and fly!
Throughout the book are suggestions for where to find inspiration for reading and writing and different ways to move on if you are discouraged. Christine Davenier's energetic illustrations add to the fun in this true celebration of what it means to be a reader and a writer, no matter how accomplished you are or aren't.
Praise for Snowy Race
"A girl gets to ride on her dad's giant snowplow in this delightful rhyming tale. They race through the heavy snow, but it's not clear where they're going until they arrive at the train station. . . Prince's (What Do Wheels Do All Day?) text is intriguingly spare, letting Davenier's (The First Thing My Mama Told Me) softly exuberant wintertime scenes shine." --The New York Times
Rhyming, minimal text coupled with fetching illustrations by Davenier expertly convey the exhilarating drama of entering into a snowstorm as well as the comfy feelings of being in a warm house while the weather is frightful. --School Library Journal
A winning, winter race. --Kirkus Reviews -
The Biggest Roller Coaster
Siblings Fritz and Franny have fun trying all the rides at the amusement park in this early reader from Geisel Honor winner Tina Kügler!
Pick a Book. Grow a Reader!This series is part of Scholastic's early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, plenty of humor, and full-color artwork on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow!Get ready to ride! Fox siblings Fritz and Franny -- and their faithful dog, Fred -- are spending the day at the amusement park. After sizing up the tallest, fastest, and loudest rides they can find, these foxes come together on the perfect coaster. Geisel Honor winner Tina Kügler's easy-to-read text and humor-filled, full-color artwork will have young readers everywhere laughing out loud!
Seasonal Books
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In My Heart
Happiness, sadness, bravery, anger, shyness . . . celebrate feelings in all their shapes and sizes in this full-color picture book from the Growing Hearts series!
Our hearts can feel so many feelings! Some make us feel as light as a balloon, others as heavy as an elephant. In My Heart explores a full range of emotions, describing how they feel physically, inside, with language that is lyrical but also direct to empower readers to practice articulating and identifying their own emotions.
With whimsical illustrations and an irresistible die-cut heart that extends through each spread, this gorgeously packaged and unique feelings book is sure to become a storytime and bedtime favorite. It will not only help your little boy or girl understand his or her feelings, but you may also hear, “Read it again! Read it again!” when you think it’s time for bed.
The Growing Hearts series celebrates the milestones of a toddler’s emotional development, from conquering fears and expressing feelings to welcoming a new sibling.
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My First Chinese New Year
Hooray! Hooray!
Soon it will be Chinese New Year.A fun and colorful way to introduce the
Chinese New Year to young readersChinese New Year is a time of new beginnings. Follow one little girl as she learns how to welcome the coming year and experience all the festivities surrounding it. This warm and lively introduction to a special holiday will make even the youngest child want to start a Chinese New Year tradition!
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Phil's Big Day
Everyone is excited for Punxsatawney Phil’s big day. . . except for him.
It’s the night before Groundhog Day, and Phil can’t sleep. His family’s voices fill his head: It’s a family tradition! You’ll make us so proud! We’re all counting on you, you, you! Making pancakes usually sets Phil’s mind at ease, but before he can finish making this batch his little sister, Marla, joins him in the kitchen. She can’t wait for his big day and insists on helping him practice. She even teaches him a poem to help him keep things straight.
But when Phil’s big (scary) day arrives, his nerves take over and his mind goes blank. What had Marla said? If you see your shadow does it mean an early spring? Or is that if you don’t see your shadow? His worries are all coming true until he has an idea that saves the day.
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Groundhug Day
Moose is having a Valentine's Day party, and all his friends are so excited! Everyone except Groundhog, that is. If Groundhog sees his shadow outside, he'll hide in his hole for six more weeks and miss the party! Determined to help their friend join them, Moose, Squirrel, Bunny, and Porcupine put their heads together and come up with a plan. But will it be enough to get Groundhog out to play? This heartwarming picturebook by the author of Vampirina Ballerina, with adorable illustrations by Christopher Denise, is sure to be a hit, whether readers are bursting for spring or snuggling up for six more weeks of winter.
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Moo-Moo, I Love You!
From the bestselling team behind I Wish You More comes a moo-ving ode to the love between parent and child—now in board book
The New York Times bestselling pair Tom Lichtenheld and Amy Krouse Rosenthal present udderly perfect expressions of affection to share between any cow and calf: I love you no matter your moo-d. I love giving you a big s-moo-ch. My love for you is as big as . . . a MOO-SE! With a universal message and warm, funny text that families will read and reread together, this exuberant book from two children’s book superstars at their best is a moo-velous choice for gifts year-round, especially for fans of I Love You to the Moon and Back and Guess How Much I Love You.
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Amelia Bedelia's First Valentine
The New York Times bestselling picture book! It's Valentine's Day in young Amelia Bedelia's classroom. And you know Amelia Bedelia--she wears her heart on her sleeve. More than 35 million Amelia Bedelia books sold since 1963!
The second book in the nationally bestselling series about the childhood of America's favorite literal-minded housekeeper. School is always exciting for Amelia Bedelia, and getting her first Valentine's Day card may be the most exciting surprise of all. But what will she do when she forgets her valentines for her classmates on the bus? Luckily, Amelia Bedelia is resourceful, and she doesn't break any hearts. A lovely pick for Valentine's Day--or any day--Amelia Bedelia's First Valentine will have readers making room in their hearts for this charmingly literal little girl.
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The Valentine Bears
Mr. and Mrs. Bear have never celebrated St. Valentine's Day because they hibernate in winter. But this year Mrs. Bear decides things will be different, so she sets her alarm clock for February 14th. Three-color illustrations.
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Cupig
A New York Times bestseller!
A comically mismatched Valentine's Day picture book with a clever and hilarious take on Cupid. Introducing Cupig the Valentine's Day pig!
Cupig absolutely loves Valentine's Day. Every year she enjoys spreading love and cheer to every creature, far and near. But when a storm blows through and sends her arrows off course, Cupig accidentally puts arrows in hearts that don't need to be mended. Peanut Butter has stopped loving Jelly! Salt and Pepper have broken up! Needle and Thread are falling apart at the seams!
Will Cupig ever fix her mistakes and get these classic pairs back together again?
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The Secret Life of Squirrels: A Love Story
Love is in the air with another irresistible photographic story of wild squirrels in homemade miniature settings, delighting readers and animal lovers of all ages.
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The Littlest Valentine
Emma may be the littlest in the Valentine family, but she knows that she has what it takes to help the family business get ready for the holiday. But Emma just can't seem to do things the right way like the bigger members of her family, no matter how
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Laugh-Out-Loud Valentine's Day Jokes: Lift-The-Flap
The #1 bestselling Laugh-Out-Loud Jokes for Kids series is bringing giggles to a whole new age group! Get ready for Valentine's Day with this beautifully illustrated lift-the-flap joke book. A great activity book for little ones, including anyone looking for a boredom buster.
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Day It Rained Hearts
One day it rains hearts, and Cornelia Augusta catches them. Each heart is special in its own way, and Cornelia Augusta knows exactly who to send them to.
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Slug in Love
From the bestselling author of Love Monster comes the irresistible story of one slug’s search for love in this endearing rhyming picture book perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Doug the slug needs a hug. But who wants to hug a slug called Doug? After a long search for someone to snuggle, lonesome Doug is ready to give up hope. But you never know when love might come flying by! Young readers will love this funny and fabulous tale that shows there’s a friend for everyone. -
The Berenstain Bears' Extra Special Valentine
It’s Valentine’s Day in Bear Country!
Brother and Sister Bear have made valentines for all their friends. Brother Bear has even made a big card for someone special—and Sister Bear wants to guess who!
But when Brother Bear doesn’t share the card with anyone at school, who could it be for? This story reminds us that love comes in many forms, and to appreciate all the special people in our lives!
The Berenstain Bears’ Extra Special Valentine is a My First I Can Read book, which means it’s perfect for shared reading with a child. Books at this level feature basic language, word repetition, and whimsical illustrations, ideal for sharing with emergent readers. The active, engaging stories have appealing plots and lovable characters, encouraging children to continue their reading journey.
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Friends Are Friends, Forever
Friends Are Friends, Forever is a picture book based on the author's own immigration story, the infinite impact of friendship, and passing on love and kindness around the world.
On a snowy Lunar New Year’s Eve in Northeastern China, it’s Dandan’s last night with Yueyue. Tomorrow, she moves to America. The two best friends have a favorite wintertime tradition: crafting paper-cut snowflakes, freezing them outside, and hanging them as ornaments.
As they say goodbye, Yueyue presses red paper and a spool of thread into Dandan’s hands so that she can carry on their tradition. But in her new home, Dandan has no one to enjoy the gift with—until a friend comes along.
Upcoming Events
Art & Literary Magazine: Accepting Submissions!
Are you an artist or an author? Submit your original artwork, poetry, short stories, or personal essays for a chance to be published in the Blue & Berry Bulletin, WAPL's Art and Literary Magazine.
Take & Make Craft - Melting Snowman
Decorate your very own snowman...slightly melted.
Take & Make Craft - Rainbow Snowflake
Color away your winter blues with a beautiful rainbow snowflake! Check out our YouTube for easy-to-follow instructions.
Wondertime
For children age 3 and their caregiver.
Each week this lively storytime features a variety of stories, songs, fingerplays, and other activities aimed at building a love of language, books, and reading!
Book Buddies
KIDS-
Readers looking for a new way to gain confidence and practice reading skills? Kids will enjoy being partnered with a young volunteer buddy. Enjoy great books, a relaxed reading time and making a new friend.
TEENS-
Learning Adventure
The early years are perfect for building a foundation for long-term learning. Help prepare your child for a classroom setting with this fun filled stem storytime.
Take & Make Craft - Snowy Owls
Have a hoot making these cute and easy snowy owls! Hoo...hoo....will get one from the library?
Lego Snow Globes
Everything will be awesome when you create your own Lego snow world!
Wondertime
For children age 3 and their caregiver.
Each week this lively storytime features a variety of stories, songs, fingerplays, and other activities aimed at building a love of language, books, and reading!
Resources for Kids
Creative Bug
![Creativebug logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/Creativebug-logo.jpg?itok=93VsPvfQ)
Nurture your creative side with 1000+ video classes in painting, knitting, crafting, sewing, and more.
Digital Library of Illinois (Libby)
![Digital Library of Illinois logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/digital-library-of-illinois-logo.png?itok=MNYfB3dx)
Powered by Libby (formerly known as Overdrive), we have combined our exclusive e-content titles with other libraries to provide a much larger selection of materials to choose from, while still maintaining first dibs on titles we will continue to add regularly.
Explora
![Explora logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2022-10/explora.png?itok=wqIjv1d2)
Start your research project here. Explora delivers results from multiple sources including articles, ebooks, essays, and primary source documents.”
Hoopla
![hoopla blue logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/Hoopla-Logo.png?itok=xeKS-nYN)
Stream & download movies, music, audiobooks, ebooks, comics and TV shows to enjoy on most any device.
KanopyKids
![Kanopy Kids color bar logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/Kanopy-kids.jpg?itok=maDHnNX7)
Browse educational and engaging videos for children of all ages that promote positive social and emotional development and inspire creativity in young minds.
Mango Languages
![Mango Languages world flag "M" logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/mangolanguages.png?itok=v-vrryza)
Language-learning software teaches practical conversation in over 70 languages, with free mobile apps, hands-free learning features, and progress tracking.
NoveList Plus K-8
![NoveList K-8 Plus child reading under tree logo](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/NoveListK8.png?itok=t936oDIL)
Great for kids, parents and teachers! Browse recommended reads by age, get book discussion guides as well search titles, authors, plot summaries, and series. Includes lexile scoring for both fiction and non-fiction titles.
Primary Search
![image for Primary Search resource](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2024-07/Primary%20search%20logo.jpg?itok=3b82Wk1N)
Primary Search is a full-text database of carefully curated content for elementary school aged children. It includes full text for the most popular children's magazines, e-books, and easy-to-read encyclopedic entries written specifically for kids.
Tumblebooks
![TumbleBook Library logo with "e-books for e-kids" tagline](/sites/default/files/styles/db_image_style/public/2021-10/tumblebooks-logo.png?itok=w-nTiGg7)
For Grades Pre-K - 6. Watch, listen and read your favorite picture books as they come to life with animation.