Don't Judge a Library By Its Cover

The of the Brooklyn Public Library is the reading family's dream-come true. The library treats its patrons like family, offering so much more than just the opportunity to spend countless delightful hours perusing children's books, (though not to discredit that pastime). There are also readings, group activities and classes for a fully dimensional, kid-centric experience for all ages.

For children four and up, Story Craft is every Tuesday at 3:30 pm and combines the elements of books and art. Kids listen to a story and then use the library's arsenal of craft supplies to make art pieces based on what the story conjures. The library hosts a free creative craft session every Wednesday afternoon as well.

On Wednesdays at 3:30 pm, the Library shows free movies. Jason Carey, the library's director of communications says that the library's programs are meant to encourage children to develop multi-dimensionally.

The library "allows kids a safe space outside of school to not only develop a passion for reading, but also develop their imaginations and minds," said Carey.

For bilingual families or parents hoping to improve their children's or their own Spanish skills, the library hosts Para Los Ninos, on Tuesdays at 3 pm. In the session, a children's book is read in Spanish and English, alongside a parenting workshop.

Brent Patrick, father of two, brings his two daughters, age 3 and 7, to the library often. He "loves the diversity," the wide range of activities offered and the people.

"The people who work here are super friendly," he said, adding that there are always other kids for his girls to play with.

The Brooklyn Public Library Reading is Fundamental program is open to members of each of its branches. The goal of RIF is to help children start their first home libraries. Registration is free and as soon as you sign up, children up to age eighteen are given the first free book of their choice from the library's designated collection.

For Patrick, the program is great because it encourages his daughters to read.

"I hope they'll always be book people," he said.

The librarians at the Carroll Gardens branch are available to personally guide parents and kids through thousands of books. From tactile stimulation to picture books to classics for school-age kids, the library has endless choices for reading aloud together, learning to read one-on-one or simply nurturing a future lover of libraries.  

Carey says the library is integral to the community for building a strong, curious family.

"We will be here as long as there are imaginative and curious minds in Brooklyn," he said.