Reading for children and young people in libraries
Libraries are a great place to immerse children in the wonder of stories. Image: LibraryOn
Free books for children of all ages
The library is a free space for everyone to discover and enjoy reading.
That includes children and young people: from toddlers to teenagers, everyone can find a story to inspire them. And they get their own free library card, too.
Many libraries even have their own dedicated area for younger visitors. They’re free spaces to explore and enjoy.
Leigh Library in Southend-on-Sea. Image: Antony Sojka for LibraryOn
Did you know?
Children and teens can often find book groups especially for them at the library.
For example, Chatterbooks reading groups are aimed at 7-to-11 year-olds. They help kids develop the skill of talking about what they’ve read in a group setting.
Ask for more information at your nearest library.
Even more than books…
Jersey Library. Image: Max Burnett
Libraries are a great way to get involved with the National Year of Reading.
But they also offer so much more than books.
During weekends and holidays they’re hives of activity for younger customers.
You might find crafting, colouring or even coding sessions to stoke your child’s curiosity.
And over summer holidays you’ll find themed seasons like the yearly Summer Reading Challenge.
Kids can enjoy a range of free activities and earn rewards for reading books.
As young readers mature they can explore whatever genres they like for free at the library. Image: LibraryOn
Free digital content for young people
Young readers can find digital books, magazines and audiobooks at the library. From comics to novels, from sport to hobbies: it’s all available for free, even on devices. Below are some examples of things you might find through library e-lending.
Non-fiction
Read into hobbies and interests
Depending on your library authority’s subscriptions, you might be able to get digital versions of:
- The Week Junior
- National Geographic Kids
- Match
- Rebel Girls
- Horrible Histories
Comics & graphic novels
Enjoy comic book capers
You can find digital versions of popular titles from illustrated series like:
- Bunny vs Monkey
- Minecraft
- Dog Man
- Teen Titans
- The Baby-Sitters Club
Gaming
Go deeper on gaming
You can find digital content through libraries on popular topics including:
- Roblox
- PlayStation & Xbox
- Minecraft
- Pokemon
- Tabletop Gaming
Fiction
Get lost in stories
Young fiction fans can find e-books and audiobooks from popular series such as:
- The Vampire Diaries
- Enola Holmes
- The Book of Dust
- Harry Potter
- A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder
Find comics and graphic novels at the library
Graphic novels and comics are a great way to encourage reading in youngsters.
You might not realise that libraries stock them – and of course they’re all free to borrow.
They’re increasingly available digitally, but you can get printed versions as well.
Plus, library craft sessions for kids often provide a chance for them to try and make their own comics!
Whether you’re after titles for younger children or teens, it’s worth checking out what your local library has to offer.
Questions about using libraries
How does a young person get a library card?
It’s free for anyone, including children, to join their local library.
An adult will usually need to show proof of identification and address at the library to obtain the child’s library card.
The age at which a library allows a young person to join as an adult varies by region. It’s often at the age of 16 or 18.
What is there for children at the library?
Most libraries have books for all ages, so children at every stage can find something to enjoy.
In addition many libraries hold regular free sessions like Rhymetime or Storytime to help children’s development.
As children get older libraries host activities and challenges to keep them entertained after school, at weekends and during holidays.
Do I need to be silent at the library? Can I take my child?
Most local public libraries don’t expect you to be quiet, and hold activities especially for children. They also have quieter times - check with your local library for the best time to visit.
Larger libraries may have stricter rules on noise and quiet areas for people to study in peace.
Do I need to be a member to enter a library?
No. Anyone can enter a public library and there’s no charge to go in.
Do I need to be a library member to borrow books?
Yes. You might need to show some identification and proof of address to become a library member. But every library authority is different, so it’s best to find your nearest library and ask the staff.
Once you’re a member you can use your library card to borrow books and more.
How many library books can I borrow at a time?
It varies by library authority. In some regions you can borrow up to 20 books at a time. When you become a library member staff will tell you how many books you can take home.
How does library e-lending work?
With library e-lending you can use your own device to enjoy e-books, audiobooks and digital versions of newspapers and magazines.
Learn more about e-lending in libraries.