Did You Know...

Programs

Events are a fabulous way to discover new books for you or your child. We have more storytimes than ever this summer. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers can start the magical journey to becoming lifelong readers. At storytimes, you can learn how to get your child ready to read. We also offer special storytimes like bilingual and pajama storytimes.

There are many programs to delight your elementary school age children too. If you have a new or reluctant reader, try one of our read to a dog or grandreaders programs. Reading to wonderful certified therapy dogs or senior volunteers from the Jewish Council on Aging (JCA) enables kids to gain reading confidence and skills. Our dogs and senior volunteers are ideal companions who listen attentively without judgment. It's a pawsitive experience! Be sure to also see storyteller Chris Fascione, who will be bringing books to life this August at several branches. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, Inc.

Kids and teens should also sign up for this year's exciting Summer Read and Learn program, Build a Better World! Kids can complete themed activities while teens can write book reviews. Both kids and teens are eligible to win prizes. All ages can sign up for the MCPL Reading Challenge 2017. It's a fun way to expand your horizons by reading one book each from twelve different categories.

And don't forget about book discussions! These are lively events where you can meet new friends and deepen your understanding of books. We have book discussions for both teens and adults. There are also book discussions that have a specific focus, such as our African American, Chinese, French, Jewish, mystery, and talking books discussion groups. Thinking about starting your own book discussion? We've got tips and reading suggestions to get you started.

Reading Suggestions
It's never too early to start reading to your babies. We also have books for older children who are reading on their own, whether they are comfortable readers or beginners. We have booklists on many favorite genres from adventure to trains on our Kids' page as well as diverse booklists by grade that will be mirrors and windows for your children. Does your child have a favorite book or author? Try NoveList K-8 Plus for reading suggestions based on books or authors that your child has enjoyed.

For teens there are a variety of popular "if you like" and topical booklists, on subjects like dystopian worlds and road trips, on our Teensite. Our librarians who love teen books have also compiled some great diverse books to read this summer and beyond for middle and high school students. Be sure to have a look at our Teen Pinterest board and YouTube playlist Teen Talk! which includes fun videos of MCPL staff and teens talking up their favorite teen titles!

Let's not forget about the adults. Have a look at our entertaining reading suggestions on Readers' Cafe. These include our We Recommend and Librarian's Choice selections. You can also find What We're Reading and more on our Pinterest boards. We also have NoveList Plus for adults with reading suggestions based on books or authors you have enjoyed. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, Library Matters where you can get to know our staff and get the inside scoop on what fabulous books they're reading. For parents or caregivers I highly recommend the episodes "Reading Aloud to a Child" Part 1 and Part 2.

All ages can get personalized reading recommendations from Beanstack either online or through email. Parents can choose from a variety of fun options to get the recommendations that are best for their children. Select your child's interests (such as Diverse Main Characters; Ninjas, Feelings & Friendship; Pirates & Warriors), favorite genres (such as Adventure; Fantasy; History & Biography), and character backgrounds (such as aliens, animals, people).  Teens & adults can choose two out of four reading doorways (People Focused, Place Focused, Plot Driven, or Prose Driven) for book suggestions.

Ask MCPL Librarians

If you're stuck, or just looking for a personal book recommendation for you or your child, you can always ask us, the reading experts! You can ask our librarians in-person at any of our branches. Or you can ask us online through our award-winning What Do I Check Out Next? service. Just complete the form and we'll email you 3-5 book recommendations in 3 business days.

Happy reading this August and all year long!