Madison Public Library hosts a variety of storytimes for kids of all ages throughout all nine library locations. Storytimes are free and do not require a library card to participate.
During storytimes and other early childhood programs at the library, Youth Services Librarians model how to use five practices that support early literacy skill-building.
TALK: talking and asking children questions about the book being read and giving them time to respond
SING: singing and using rhymes with children to help break down sounds and syllables in words
READ: reading books aloud and pointing out text on everyday items
WRITE: writing stories, drawing and tracing letters with children
PLAY: playing puppets or with toys to tell a story
These practices are taken from the Public Library Association's Every Child Ready to Read program, and are incorporated into most storytimes at Madison Public Library. In the children's areas at each of our nine library locations, you will also find book displays, printed book lists, and open-ended play materials that help support early childhood learners with both literacy and fine and gross motor skill development.
Why Join Storytimes?
From birth to age 3, a child's brain is incredibly active, generating over 700 new neural connections every second. Even beyond this early stage, children continue to learn rapidly and thrive on mental stimulation. Storytimes are a fantastic way to prepare children for school and/or reinforce what they've learned and apply their new skills in different contexts.
This period of development is remarkable, and caregivers play a crucial role in nurturing their child's growth and success. Storytelling is a vital took for language and cognitive development, offering the opportunity to explore and understand the world around them. Participating in storytimes not only helps stimulate their brains but also strengthens the bond between children and their caregivers.
What to Expect at Storytime
At storytimes, your child is free to participate in any way that works for them. Some kids get up and move around or cry, and that is OKAY! The library is a judgment-free zone. Like adults, kids sometimes have hard days. That’s expected. Caregivers and children are welcome in whatever way they show up. You are never late for storytime! We are happy to see you - whether you are the first person to arrive, or the last. Don’t worry about being “on time” - you are doing great! Whenever you get here, we will be ready to welcome you. We do ask adults to refrain from using your cell phone during early childhood programming.
Supporting Early Childhood Educators
The Madison Public Library partners with many local early childhood organizations:
- Parents As First Teachers, in partnership with Public Health of Dane County
- Overture’s The Lullaby Project
- Delivery of books to home childcare programs and early childhood centers, in partnership with Satellite Family Childcare
- MMSD Play & Learn
- Classroom book collections for MMSD 4K teachers in partnership with Madison Reading Project
Have an idea for a library program?
Book Lists for Kids
High-quality books with inclusive content, diverse authors, and memorable characters.
Play Spaces
Play is a fundamental part of early literacy. Find the right play for your family with our play guide!
Get a Library Card
There's a world of resources available for kids and families from Madison Public Library, and it all begins with your library card!
Storytime Starters
Based on the themes used at our Preschool Storytimes, these thematic lists include books, songs, fingerplays, Play Literacy suggestions and more!