Consider A Trip to the Public Library

Ms. Katie Fox, MSLIS (and Cortland mom) recommends a trip to the public library

Friendly tips for younger library lovers include:
-A library card is one of the best ways to introduce a sense of ownership and responsibility
-Every branch has free story times and community events. Check out CPS events online at chipublib.org
-Children can learn and become comfortable with basic computer skills (using a mouse to click, scroll), reading directions through word/symbol recognition abcmouse.com is great for this, and free to use at all CPL locations
-Take interest and inquisitions to new heights by browsing the non-fiction section together
-Look beyond picture books and consider a simple chapter book to share at bedtime or for quiet moments. A few titles to try: Toys Go Out by Emily Jenkins, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo, The BFG by Roald Dahl, The Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne, and The Lighthouse Family series by Cynthia Rylant
-Make it an adventure! If you have already discovered your local branch, check out one in another neighborhood around the city. There are 81 branches throughout the Chicago area. Each branch has a singular vibe and varying levels of organization and optimization of events, services, space and staff (for better or worse). There are some real gems to be found for sure!
-You can access ebooks and audiobooks as well as stream movies with your library card. Download some before your next roadtrip.
-CPL has a great summer reading program with fun events and incentives for children to keep reading during the summer months. Mark your calendar now for the upcoming summer!