Do you remember some of the first books you read to your children?
I sure do! “Poppleton” by Cynthia Rylant was one of ours.
It’s a collection of short stories about a pig who visits the library every Monday. It inspired me to start a Monday library tradition of our own…
nowadays, most Monday afternoons, my boys and I head to the library.
It’s not just about borrowing books, though. The library offers us a sense of community that goes beyond that.
The library offers us a sense of community that goes beyond borrowing books.
As soon as we walk into the oak-beamed, oak shelf-lined grand room, there’s a familiar smell of books. A friendly and familiar librarian sits behind the desk to greet us.
it feels like we belong there.
When we’ve gone too many days going about our regular routine without “shaking it up,” books can provide that much-needed escape from our day-to-day reality.
for many families, like ours, books can be a much-needed form of escape, exploration, and learning…
…especially when trying to save money and avoid overspending on toys or watching too much TV.
Books can transport us to different worlds, and we learn and discover things we never even guessed we might be interested in. Like, who would have thought that I’d take out a book about the “Selfie Culture” or “Star Wars Origami”?
But I did! Last week!
we love finding books that inspire us, ignite passion within us, and allow us to dream.
Last year, my now-8-year-old and I read “The Borrowers.” It’s a fantastic series about a family of tiny people who live secretly in the homes of humans and “borrow” items they need to survive.
For example, they use thimbles for cups, matchboxes for beds, and make sleds out of tea trays. They also climb curtains and walls like professional rock climbers, and even climb a drainpipe to escape from a flooded house.
It’s an incredible story that imparts valuable lessons on bravery, ingenuity, and the importance of close-knit relationships and a supportive community.
furthermore, reading can help children develop empathy and understanding and learn important life skills.
it can promote a positive outlook on life.
By reading stories about characters from diverse backgrounds or going through challenging situations, children can discover role models that they can relate to. Literary role models can exhibit resilience, compassion, and other invaluable qualities for our children to echo.
Children can benefit from books that promote empathy and understanding.
additionally, reading is one of those activities that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your very own home, without the need for expensive gadgets or equipment!
and one of the best things about reading is that it’s cost-effective. because library books can be checked out for free.
Reading can also provide a comfortable and accessible form of learning.
Not only is it a great way to save money, but it also has the potential to foster a love of learning and a desire for continued self-education. By reading regularly, children can broaden their horizons, expand their knowledge, and develop critical thinking skills. Those are things that will serve them well throughout their lives.
The library has become a place of growth and connection for our family.
My boys and I have bonded over stories like “Pete the Cat,” “Curious George,” “The Berenstain Bears,” “Elephant and Piggie,” and this year, “Harry Potter.” It’s amazing to think that a simple book about a pig led us to discover the magic of the library.
so, i encourage you to visit your local library and discover the joy of reading with your family.
Who knows what adventures you might embark on together?
Headed there now!!
