3 Tips For Creating Your Kids’ Library

booksI’ve always said you can never have too many books. I find this to be especially true when it comes to kids’ libraries. I collected books for my kids even before I was a mom! I held onto my childhood favorites with the intent to pass them down before I even realized that the memories of my own kids reading my own beloved childhood books would be that special .

Now, ranging in ages from 2 to 9, I see that each of my four children developed an appreciation for books and a love for reading that makes me so very grateful that we have created such a great library for our children to learn from and enjoy.

Aside from my own childhood collection, here are three main ways our children have developed their library.

In Lieu of a Card

For all you first time moms-to-be out there, take note of this one! I am sure many of you have seen the inserts inside baby shower invitations that read “In lieu of a card, bring a book” (which is most of the time paired with a catchy rhyme….but you get my drift!) This is such a simple, yet meaningful addition to any baby shower. I remember it how special it was to receive so many books with personalized notes in them. Most have lasted through all of my children and will forever hold a place in my heart (and probably in my attic until my grandkids can enjoy them if we’re being honest!) A variation to a baby shower would be to make this part of a birthday party. Such a fun and memorable way to fill your child’s library with more age appropriate books, year after year, as they grow!

Second Hand Books

booksI will be the first to admit that books can get pricey, especially if you are seeking out something like a series of books. I have had great success finding specific books on secondhand book sites such as Alibris. What’s nice about these book marketplaces is that they often have multiple seller options and the ability to choose what condition you want (many times “like new” is an option, but you still pay only a fraction of the price you would at a regular retailer). Garage sales and hand-me-downs from friends and family are also good ways to pick up some new reads for little to no money!

Gift Card 

A couple years ago my aunt started sending my kids each a Barnes and Noble gift card for Christmas. During our winter break from school, we make a whole day out of spending our gift cards. We pick out the perfect books, grab a snack at Starbucks, and then head home to read all of our new finds. This is now a cherished family tradition in our house! I’ve heard that people want their kids to have experiences as opposed to toys—I think this definitely makes a great alternative!

These are some of our family’s favorite ways to add to our library at home, what are some of yours?

Jessica
Jessica lives in rural Bennington and is blessed to be ‘wifey’ to her husband and ‘momma’ to her 4 great kiddos! After working nearly a decade as a nurse she has moved into her current role as a SAHM and is rocking it like a boss! Her daily grind includes, but is not limited to playing chauffer, housekeeper, chef and personal assistant. Between chicken chores, school board meetings, and keeping a plethora of kids activities strait, Jessica always maintains that she is never too busy to stop and play freeze dance with the kids. When she is able to escape from toddler diapers and preteen drama, she enjoys baking, crafting and locking herself in the bathroom for a moment of silence. Her daily mantra, “the days are long but the years are short” is key in maintaining her sanity and helping her keep calm amidst the chaos!