How to build a children's library
Now more than ever creating a library for our children has become incredibly important. With many students moving to virtual learning as opposed to in person classes, closures of libraries, as well as an increase of families that have decided to homeschool going forward, having a well stocked bookshelf is more of a necessity.
Here are some simple and budget friendly ways to start your own home library and help your child discover the joy of reading!
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Gifting
The number one way that I’ve grown my daughter’s library is gifts from family and friends. We’ve requested books as gifts for literally every event that we could think of, and our family and friends have provided us so many books to add to our collection!
Free (to borrow)
Little Library - Look around your area and see if there are any little libraries poking around that you could take advantage of. These are wonderful and you can leave a book your children are no longer interested in and take a new one! Repeat the process as often as you like.
Library - Many libraries are now offering curbside pick up to their communities. Simply log on to your libraries computer system and reserve the books you would like to read. The library will then contact you to schedule a pick up time.
Ebooks - Hoopla is a wonderful software that connects directly to your libraries collection. You can borrow ebooks and audiobooks, along with TV shows and movies for no cost.
Second hand
Facebook marketplace - Possibly my favorite way to source children’s books is to jump on Facebook marketplace and see if anyone is selling them. I’ve found some true treasures there! If you find yourself concerned about COVID-19 I suggest quarantining the books after purchasing. I also like to wipe down the books as much as possible with isopropyl wipes (or Clorox wipes if you prefer them).
Ebay - I found a massive lot of Little golden books collection about two years ago for a steal! They are a great addition to our library and most will last several years. Ebay is the place to go if you’re looking for large collections of second hand books.
Friends - Reach out to families that may have children that have grown out of younger level books. Most families are itching to get rid of clutter and would be happy to pass on their previous books to a family that can use them.
Family - While reaching out to friends take a minute and reach out to Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. You never know what treasures they may have tucked away in their older children’s bookshelves.
Thrift Books - Thrift Books is a great website that offers a large collection of second hand books delivered to your door.
Purchasing new
Sometimes it becomes necessary to purchase new books and if that’s the case here are some options of where to buy.
Check in at your local bookstore - Not only is your local bookstore close to your home, you’ll be supporting a small local business!
Book Depository - I’ve purchased from Book Depository many times, especially when I’m buying gifts for Family in New Zealand, the UK or Canada because shipping is free. The book Depository has a massive selection of all generes of books, not only children!
Better World Books - A new company to me with a large collection in their catalogue to purchase, and even better a massive selection in their used books collection. Better World Books has a wonderful about me section I encourage you to check out.
Books-A-Million - An online retailer with an incredibly extensive library. I especially enjoyed their section “Read it before you see it” for kids.
Barnes & Noble - Probably one of the most well known online stores for books, Barnes & Noble boasts an extensive inventory and great children’s selections.
Amazon - Lastly, if you’re looking for books to purchase try Amazon. Once you find the book you’d like to purchase, I urge you to look under the fee where it should say “buy used”. Buying used will save huge amounts of money and nine times out of ten I’ve been able to purchase from libraries, charities and shelters.
Where is your favorite place to find children’s books? Let me know in the comments and I’ll update my list as the recommendations come in!
Happy reading!
