Inclusive AF: Celebrate Take Your Child to the Library Day!
Saturday, February 1st at a Public Library Near YOU!
As an elementary teacher, I talked about READING - A LOT. Like a shit ton. To the point that if I had 1 penny for all the times I said READ in my life, I’d be richer than Taylor S.
Not only am I a teacher and advocate for reading, I am also a colossal book nerd and would rather read than almost anything else.
That’s why I’d be remiss if I didn’t remind you to mark your calendar to celebrate
Take Your Child to the Library Day (TYCLD)! On Saturday, February 1st.
It’s not just a day to grab a library card (though you should totally do that, too). It’s an all-out celebration of libraries, books, and the endless learning they spark. Check out the official TYCLD website to see what’s going down at your local library on this big day.
Wait. What if I Don’t Have Kids?
I get it. My son is grown and on his own. I don’t have school aged kids at home that I could take to the library either, so this section is not to shame you.
However, I do have some ideas if you’d like to participate.
My nephew is also grown, but I live next door to a couple of boys I consider framily, so I could take them if they aren’t busy.
I could drop off a banned book to a local, Free Little Library.
I could also just take myself. After all, how long has it been since YOU were at the library?
Find the Right Book for EVERY Kid
Inclusivity is the name of the game. It’s not 1972 anymore—kids deserve to see themselves and others in the stories they read. Whether you’ve got a bookworm or a reluctant reader at home, diverse, inclusive stories can create a spark. Need some help finding those gems? Start here:
Social Justice Books: Over 100 book lists covering everything from activism to gender diversity, all pairing great stories with big representation.
ALA Inclusive Booklists: Handpicked titles that bring underrepresented voices to the forefront. These selections are great for all ages, from wee toddlers to seasoned young adults.
Mighty Women Book List for Grown Ass People - find yourself a book and model inclusive reading
Give these lists a browse and then watch your kids (or even you,) get hooked on some serious storytelling magic.
Talk About the Books They’re Reading
Reading isn’t just about flipping pages—it’s about thinking. DO NOT just ask, “What did you think of the book?” That’s kinda lazy.
Try these conversation fire-starters:
“Which character made you feel something? Why?”
“If you could change the ending, what would it look like?”
“Does this book remind you of anything you’ve seen, read, or experienced?”
”Who else would like this book?”
Grab our FREE Download: A Simple Guide for Engaging Kids & Adults in Book Discussions
Kids have ideas. Loads of them. But it’s up to YOU to give them the mic. Once they start talking, you might just realize they’ve got the wildest, funniest, or most profound takes you’ve heard.
Libraries Are Way More Than Books
Yeah, libraries have books. Tons of them. Big ones, small ones, weird ones, classics, manga, everything. But that’s just scratching the surface. Modern libraries are like sneaky community superheroes offering:
Storytime & Activities: Perfect for the littles who thrive on rhymes, music, and crafts.
Tech Access: Need a computer, printer, or even a Wi-Fi hotspot to borrow? Libraries got it.
Community Programs: Yoga, language classes, DIY workshops, tax prep help—yep, all under the same roof. Some libraries also provide SEEDS!
Homework Help: Because math is STILL hard.
Multimedia: Many libraries also have Vinyl, CD’s, DVD’s, Audiobooks, magazines, newspapers, along with digital media collections. This link to a local library has several options to access e-books, movies, magazines, music and more for FREE.
Libraries bust beyond stereotypes. They’re where curiosity meets possibility. And YOU have a front-row pass.
Don’t Miss the Day!
Take Your Child to the Library Day is your excuse to explore your local library like a curious five-year-old again. Walk in, soak it up, and rediscover why libraries aren’t just relevant—they’re essential. It’s free (hello, unbeatable price), fun, and just the spark kids and people need in a noisy, tech-obsessed world.
Plus, #ReadingIsResistance
Click here to learn more about Take Your Child to the Library Day. Find your nearest event, grab the Inclusive AF crew, and go.