We are committed to offering programs and collections to support your child in gaining important early literacy skills. What is early literacy? It is simply the knowledge a child gains about reading and writing long before they learn to read and write in school. Learning how a book works, recognizing letters, and feeling excited about reading are just some of the early literacy skills we can help you develop with your child.
What is happening for preschoolers?
We have free programs for preschoolers all year round. View our online events calendar or program highlights for more details. Registration is not required, unless otherwise noted.
Storytime is growing time...
The earlier you expose a child to language, song and rhyme, the better! Research shows that all these activities encourage healthy brain development. Our weekly storytimes are based in early childhood development concepts and the American Library Association’s Every Child Ready to Read program.
Storytime helps children to
• build vocabulary
• hone fine and gross motor skills
• develop social skills
• learn how to participate in a group setting
• form a positive, fun association with books and learning
Parents & caregivers benefit by
• discovering new picturebooks
• learning new rhymes and songs
• meeting and socializing with other parents and caregivers in the community
And while you’re in the library with your preschooler, check our active learning panels! Purchased with a Literacy Equity grant from the Province of BC, these ten panels promote early literacy skills and combine education and play.
Find a good book
Booklists for preschool
Our top recommendations conveniently organized by age:
» Booklist Babies
» Booklist 2 & 3 year olds
» Booklist 4 & 5 year olds
» Canadian Children’s Award Index
» American Library Association Book and Media Awards
Tumblebooks is a collection of interactive, talking picture books featuring popular characters and authors. Titles are available in English, French and Spanish. A library card is required to access them.
International Children’s Digital Library
This digital library contains 4,000 children’s books in 54 different languages. Access for free from any computer with an internet connection.