There are few places in the world that have the potential to be as life-changing and magical as libraries are. It makes sense then that, as book people, we love books about libraries and librarians. We’re celebrating both by pulling out these favorites and letting young readers get to know a little about what is in store for them every time they step into a library.

Library Dragon

The Library Dragon
Written by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Michael P. White

Sunrise Elementary School has a BIG problem. Their new librarian, Miss Lotta Scales, is a real dragon. This humorous tale by New York Times best-selling author Carmen Agra Deedy is paired with Michael P. White’s lively illustrations for an entertaining story about the power and importance of books for both children and adults.

Don’t miss this free Teacher’s Guide or these Library Dragon glasses cut-outs!

Return of the Library Dragon

Return of the Library Dragon
Written by Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Michael P. White

In this sequel to The Library Dragon, Miss Lotty is finally checking herself out of the Sunrise Elementary School Library, but not before Lotta Scales makes one final, fiery stand. After 557 years of faithful service, Miss Lotty is retiring from guarding books. But before she can check out of Sunrise Elementary for good, disaster strikes. Someone has ordered to have all the books removed from the library and replaced with machines!

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog
by Lisa Papp

Madeline Finn does NOT like to read. But she DOES want a gold star from her teacher. But, stars are for good readers. Stars are for understanding words, and for saying them out loud. Fortunately, Madeline Finn meets Bonnie, a library dog. With endearing illustrations, Lisa Papp brings an inspiring and comforting book to all new readers who just need a little confidence to overcome their fears.

Download this free Activity Kit and print out your own Madeline Finn poster!

Boy Who Was Raised Librarians

The Boy Who Was Raised by Librarians
Written by Carla Morris and illustrated by Brad Sneed

This humorous tale of a curious young boy and his single-minded quest for knowledge is a heartfelt and affectionate tribute to librarians everywhere. Every day after school Melvin goes to the library. His favorite people—Marge, Betty, and Leola—are always there behind the reference desk. When something interests Melvin, his librarian friends help him find lots and lots of books on the subject. Readers will enjoy Brad Sneed’s delightful illustrations that colorfully capture the fun-loving spirit of Carla Morris’s story about the contagious enthusiasm of learning.

Amazing Mr Franklin PB

The Amazing Mr. Franklin
by Ruth Ashby

Everyone knows Benjamin Franklin was an important statesman, inventor, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. But did you know he started the first public library in America? Ruth Ashby’s fast-paced biography takes young readers through Franklin’s life from his spirited, rebellious youth through his successful career as an inventor and politician and finally to the last years of his life,  surrounded by his personal collection of books.

Find these books and more at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble!