Check Out These Tips: Going to the Library

Steps we suggest to have a successful library outing. This is what works for us.

Before Leaving:

Plan and Verbalize it

1. We typically go to the park or playground, then the library after breakfast on Fridays or after school on weekdays. This tends to work because of our routines and schedules. Also the library can be too busy on the weekends.
2. Verbally prep your child of the intended agenda. For example: first we’re going to the park/playground and then we’re going to the library.
3. Set expectations before leaving the house if walking, or getting out of the car/bus/subway. It is helpful to verbally explain what a safe and fun playground experience will be like, and that you’ll give a countdown before the transition to the library. Explain the rules of the library and why those rules are in place. Example: walking not running because you can get hurt and use library voice, not yelling, so everyone can focus on reading.
4. Pack
   1. Library books that need to be returned (Some libraries have online records so you know which ones are due.)
   2. Snacks and water for you and kiddo
   3. Two reusable tote bags
   4. Hats (It can be sunny at the playground.)
   5. Noise reducing headphones (for playground or library- totally child dependent- you will already know if your child needs these)

First Stop – The Playground

1. Going to a playground or park before the library helps get the wiggles out and can regulate little bodies. If your kiddos already climbed playground equipment they are possibly less likely to climb the bookshelves. It can be a welcomed transition from a bright, loud, and physical outdoor space to a quiet, calm indoor environment.
2. If possible offer water or a snack on the way to the library. Unless your library has an outdoor space for snacking, you’ll want to go in with some food in tummies to avoid hangry reading or a child that just wants to leave because, hello, they are hungry.

Main Stop – The Library

1. Return borrowed books with your child. Whether the return is digital or manual, engage your child to help. Either have them hold the return slot handle or feed the borrowed books into the machine. They will see first hand the full circle of borrowing from the library. They will see which books they’ve read and which are being returned. We’ve had some awesome conversations at the return slot. I get to hear which books he is going to miss and those he cannot wait to borrow again. Also silence about other books can speak volumes at that return slot.
2. Give verbal reminders before walking in. For example: use library voice, walking, and the agenda in the library (restroom, book search, library computer time limit)
3. Bathroom first. This might not apply to all ages but if you have babies, toddlers, or voracious readers, they still have bladders!
4. Hit up those books. This is totally up to you or your child. Ask them ahead of time how they want to explore the library. Maybe tell them the types of books they can find and make a list of where those books are located. Child-led library trips are a blast by the way. Seeing what books they want with zero interference can be a chaotic joy.
5. Water and snack break if needed.
6. Let them know when it is time to check out books ahead of time.
7. Engage your child to swipe the library card or hand the books over to be borrowed.

Pro-tip:

1. Library trips don’t need to be long. The more enjoyable the short trips are, the more likely the trip duration will lengthen over time, and your kiddos will want to return.
2. Think about your goal for the trip ahead of time. Placing too many expectations on your child isn’t super fair if it is their first time to the library. Is your goal to expose your child to literature? To spend quality time in a quiet place? Is it just an activity you and your child can do together?
3. Try, try, try. It can take several attempts to become happy library flies. It’s alright if you have to leave before entering, and it’s alright to come back when stars align. Just try.
4. Some kids need verbal reminders at their physical level. Yes, getting down to them. My son does not like eye contact and listens better when he isn’t looking right at me, but when I get down to his level, he seems to be able to focus and hear me better.

Question:

Do you limit the amount of books your child can borrow from the library?