Books by Theme
Favorite Stories About Libraries and Librarians
These stories celebrate libraries, librarians, and everyone who loves to visit the library! Meet Tomás who is introduced to the world of books by the local librarian during harvest season, 'that book woman' who delivers stories by horseback to children in the Appalachian hills, and a lion who one day decides to walk right into the library. These books will remind you of the many reasons why our libraries — in all their forms — are such special places. Many of these books are also available in Spanish! Learn more from the Fun at the Library booklist on Colorín Colorado.

Amelia Bedelia is back! This time she is keeping everyone at the library on their toes. Between knitting book "jackets," hiding from the scary thesaurus, and stealing the bookmobile, no one — especially the librarian — knows what will happen next. Will Amelia Bedelia's good intentions save the day?

"Storytime is just the thing / to rest a play-exhausted wing." It's bat night at the library, and the bats have come to read their favorite stories in this clever story told in rhyme. From reading the classics to splashing in the drinking fountain, the bats will leave you wondering what really happens after dark in the library! Also available in Spanish.

Arthur's little sister, Dora Winifred (better known as D.W.) can hardly wait until she can write her entire name to get her very own library card. Once she does, however, D.W. worries so much about possibly damaging the book she borrowed that she cannot enjoy it. Arthur helps her understand that she can use and enjoy library books safely. Also available in Spanish.

When a lion comes into the library, no one is sure what to do. After all, there aren't any rules about lions in the library — especially one with a loud roar! Everyone is about to learn, however, just how helpful a library lion can be. Lovely, warm illustrations bring this enchanting story to life. Also available in Spanish.

Sam is a library mouse, and he lives in the wall behind the children's reference section. One night, he decides to try writing his own story, and it's a big hit! Soon everyone at the library is wondering who the mystery writer is. What Sam plans next will surprise and delight readers of all ages. Daniel Kirk provides lifelike illustrations to accompany his heartwarming story.

Have you ever gotten your library book by way of a camel, elephant, solar-powered truck, or boat? This book offers a fascinating introduction to the many kinds of libraries around the world and includes numerous photos. Readers will come away with an appreciation of just how special libraries are to people no matter their background, as well as of their own neighborhood library branch!

Stella Louella has lost her library book on the day it's due! She embarks on a hilarious neighborhood search that all library-goers can relate to in order to find her book before the library closes. Readers will enjoy the engaging illustrations and eagerly turn the pages to see how it all turns out.

High in the Appalachian hills, a woman comes every two weeks on horseback to deliver books to Cal's family. Cal has no interest in reading, but he wonders what could possibly make her long treks in the snow and wind worthwhile? Young readers will discover a moving introduction to the story and courage of Kentucky's Pack Horse Librarians.

In spite of looming war, librarian Alia Muhammed Baker was able to save the books from the library of Basra by moving them to safety. Simple forms and deep colors in a naïve style evoke the war without being explicit. The bravery and action of one person celebrates both everyday heroism and books as a unifying force.

Tomás, child of migrant workers, visits the town library to find stories like the ones told by his grandfather. There he meets a librarian who provides him with a cool place, stories and books, and friendship before Tomás and his family move on to the next place. Handsomely illustrated in earth tones, this touching story was inspired by the real life of writer and educator, Tomás Rivera. Also available in Spanish.
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