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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.

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Amelia Bedelia, Bookworm
Amelia Bedelia, Bookworm
By: Herman Parish
Illustrated by: Lynn Sweat
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader

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?

Bats at the Library
Bats at the Library
By: Brian Lies
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

"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.

D.W.'s Library Card
D.W.'s Library Card
By: Marc Brown
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader

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.

Library Lion
Library Lion
By: Michelle Knudsen
Illustrated by: Kevin Hawkes
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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.

Library Mouse
Library Mouse
By: Daniel Kirk
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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.

My Librarian Is a Camel: How Books Are Brought to Children Around the World
My Librarian Is a Camel: How Books Are Brought to Children Around the World
By: Margriet Ruurs
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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's Runaway Book
Stella Louella's Runaway Book
By: Lisa Campbell Ernst
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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.

That Book Woman
That Book Woman
By: Heather Henson
Illustrated by: David Small
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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.

The Librarian of Basra: A True Story From Iraq
The Librarian of Basra: A True Story From Iraq
By: Jeanette Winter
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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 and the Library Lady
Tomás and the Library Lady
By: Pat Mora
Illustrated by: Raul Colón
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader

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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