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!

Join us in celebrating the joy of reading! A cotton totebag with a luggage tag attached to it. The totebag has a drawing of a dinosaur on it, and reads "I got my library card!"

Introducing Lyle Barry and our new tote bags for kids!

As part of our initiative to promote early literacy, we are excited to announce that every child (from ages 0-15) who gets their first Chatham Area Public library card will receive a complimentary “I Got My Library Card!” tote bag, featuring our very own literacy dinosaur, Lyle Barry. This initiative is sponsored by our Friends of the Library.

These bags were specifically chosen to fit picture books, which are popular for our young readers. The bags even include a library card holder to help keep everything they need for their trip to the library in one place!

Pick one up when your young person gets their first Chatham Area Public Library card at our Library. Did your child get their card earlier in 2024? They are still eligible to receive the bag. Bags available while supplies last.

The free tote bag program is only available for residents of the Chatham Area Public Library District.

Does your child already have their card, but is interested in owning a bag? You are in luck! We have a tote bag for you too! For $5 per bag, or $10 for 3 bags, you can have your very own tote bag featuring our friend, Lyle Barry, the literacy dinosaur! Funds go back to support the Friends of the Chatham Area Public Library.

It’s more than just a card; it’s a passport to endless adventures in the world of books.

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.

Fridays at 10:15 am

Join Miss Catherine 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