When Travis was a baby, my in-laws kept pointing me in the direction of the library, a suggestion I originally ignored. Having grown up in a town where the library was an underutilized resource, I couldn’t quite understand the fuss. As soon as I stepped in, boy did I get it!

Not only do children’s sections often feature a wide selection of educational toys – a free playspace! – but they also offer rotating free programs, entertainment, mommy & me groups, yoga, and more.

If you’re not already a member of your local library, today’s the day to head over and check out the offerings. Veronika and I grabbed a flyer for the upcoming months, and already have our sights set on a playgroup for the youngest babies.

In addition, your little one will benefit simply by sitting in on crafts or storytimes that big siblings attend, or hanging out in the stroller while they play.

And then of course there’s the obvious draw at a library – books! It’s never too early to read to your infant, even before they understand the words.

Veronika and I nabbed a pamphlet with recommended reading for even the litt/est babies, featuring black & white books, or ones with vivid illustrations and simple text.

Wake up Veronika, your brother used to love this one!

Oh good, she opened her eyes for a cute story about a snowball. I loved taking a quiet reading moment with her while Travis was in school.

What programs have you discovered at your library? Please share in the comments!