If you read for 20 minutes a day, by the end of year you will have heard 1.8 million words. For a child, that level of exposure sets the stage for strengthened brain, language and emotional development. While reading at home lays the foundation for those millions of words, storytime provides the chance to get out of the house, be introduced to new titles, and enjoy activities and songs alongside other families. Check out the following storytimes and ongoing literacy opportunities for Manhattan for spring 2024 and see what fits your schedule!
Storytimes in Manhattan
Manhattan Public Library
Storytimes
The Manhattan Public Library offers a plethora of storytimes, featuring books, rhymes and music as part of Baby Rhyme Time, 18 Months & Up Storytime, 3 & Up Storytime, and Family Fun Storytime. In addition to weekly storytimes, special themed storytimes are offered throughout the season, including Pajama Storytime, Yoga Storytime, and Zoofari Tails Storytime in partnership with Sunset Zoo. Check the online calendar for the current schedule, as times and dates may change each season.
StoryWalk® Indoors
Start at the children’s room desk and follow the numbered signs through the children’s room to read a complete picture book at your own pace. Visit the desk upon completion for a small prize. Stroll along with January’s featured StoryWalk® title, Martin’s Dream by Jane Kurtz, during regular library hours from Jan. 15-21. Check the online calendar for details on future StoryWalk® dates and titles.
Cozy Up with a Good Books Reading Challenge
Slip on your fuzzy socks and bury yourself in a blanket for the Cozy Up with a Good Book reading challenge. From Jan. 1 to Feb. 29, kids, teens and adults are invited to earn points by tracking their reading and completing activities like visiting the library, helping a neighbor, exploring nature and more.
Raising Riley StoryWalk®
When there’s an unexpectedly warm winter day, breathe in the fresh air at the Raising Riley StoryWalk® trail. Enjoy a new title monthly as you stroll around the campus (2101 Claflin Rd.) and read a few pages at a time. Once you’re finished, stop into the office to pick up a free book during office hours or share a picture on social media using #rrstorywalk.
Chick-fil-A Storytime
Moooove on in and join the herd for Chick-fil-A storytime! Staff members will present a story and craft at 9 a.m. every Wednesday at the Manhattan Chick-fil-A (636 Tuttle Creek Blvd.) Follow their Facebook page for the most up-to-date event announcements. No purchase necessary to participate.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten
If you have an infant or toddler, sign them up for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten through the Manhattan Public Library. As you read aloud to your child at home, listen to books during storytime, or stroll through a StoryWalk®, add those titles to their log to earn free books as you work towards 1000 titles. To track books, check out the Beanstalk app or print a reading log from the challenge website.
Imagination Library
Build up your home library for storytime on the couch by joining Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. All Kansas children are eligible to receive a free book monthly in the mail from birth until their fifth birthday. For expecting families, children can be registered once they’re born, and note that it may take a few months after registration for you to begin receiving books.
