Storytimes

Storytime fosters early literacy skills, develops a lifelong love of reading and prepares little ones for school. It incorporates elements of reading, writing, singing, talking, and playing as well as age appropriate activities.

No registration required so drop on in!

Baby and Toddler Time - Birth-3 years old with caregivers
Family Evening - 3 years old and up with caregivers
Preschool - 3, 4, and 5 year olds with caregivers

graphic of children sitting in front of an adult on an open book

Note to Parents and Caregivers

Storytime isn't just for kids! It's an opportunity for parents to learn how to teach early literacy skills. Please join and participate with your child, even if they're shy.

Children learn by example, and you're their best role model. We don't expect silent attention; if your child becomes disruptive, feel free to step out together and return when they've calmed down. Let's make learning together a fun experience!

🎉 Celebrate the Year of Library Cards & Literacy!

We’re shining a spotlight on the power of reading and the magic that begins with a library card. To celebrate, every child ages 0–15 who receives their first Chatham Area Public Library card will get a free “I Got My Library Card!” tote bag featuring our literacy dinosaur, Lyle Barry.

These kid‑friendly totes were designed to fit picture books perfectly and include a built‑in library card holder—everything young readers need for their next library adventure. This special giveaway is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Bags are limited to residents of the Chatham Area Public Library District.

🦕 Want a Lyle Barry Tote of Your Own?

Kids aren’t the only ones who love Lyle Barry! Tote bags are available for purchase:

$5 per bag
$10 for 3 bags

All proceeds support the Friends of the Chatham Area Public Library.

📚 A Library Card Is More Than a Card

It’s a passport to stories, imagination, and lifelong learning. Help us celebrate literacy all year long by encouraging young readers to get their library card and join the adventure.

Tuesdays at 9:45 and 10:45 am

Join Ms. Julie for this storytime that focuses on developing your baby's pre-literacy skills. She'll help introduce a love for books with song, movement and rhyme. You'll get to enjoy a variety of age-appropriate books, songs, and finger plays.

Woman reading a picture book for children sitting on the ground

Thursdays at 6:30 pm

Can't make storytimes during the day? Come have fun with your family at our Thursday Family Evening Storytime with Miss Amy. We will read entertaining, themed books together and enjoy an simple craft.

Miss Maddie smiles and holds up a book to a group of children at storytime.

Fridays at 10:15 am

Join Miss Maddie each week for three to four books and a make at home craft that is just right for preschoolers!

eResources for kids

Kanopy Kids

Kanopy Kids is curated collection of content for children, with a focus on ages 2-8. 10 credits per month.

Libby

Libby has thousands of your kid's favorite books, audiobooks, graphic novels, picture books and read-alongs. Check out 8 formats at a time with no monthly limit!

hoopla

Hoopla for Kids spotlights all their materials designed for younger audiences including selection of music, movies, audiobooks, comics, and television shows. --- After logging in, click on the word “Kids” to the right of the search bar to enter Kid’s mode. -– you can borrow instantly up to 4 items per month with your library card.

Vox Books

VOX Books enable children to listen to an audio recording directly from a printed book – no computer, no tablet, no phone.

Ages Birth to Preschool