June Events for Teens

June Events for Teens

June Events for Teens

Color Our World

Summer Reading 2025 is Here! 

You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Your final goal is 1500 pages, but you earn prizes for every 500 pages you read! There are also special activities that earn you 25 pages. Check out our Summer Reading page for more details.

Teen Writing Contest

“Picture This!”

Ready to unleash your creativity? The “Picture This!” Cartoon Catalyst Short Story Contest is open for submissions from June 2 to July 19! Teens ages 12–18 can write an original story inspired by a comic or cartoon panel for a chance to win awesome prizes—including a $30 Amazon gift card, Fat Cats Date Pack, and more. Every participant gets a prize! Winners will be announced July 25. Visit the Teen Zone for details.

Teen Action Council

The Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, May 7 in the Community Room at 4 PM!

Teen Kickoff: Lights, Camera, Party!

Step into the spotlight at our Mini-Movie Making Party — where YOU and your friends are the stars! Pick your genre, grab some props, and bring your wildest ideas to life. Then walk the red carpet and premiere your masterpiece on the big screen (with popcorn, of course). Ages 12-18 are invited to join us Friday, June 6 at 7 PM in the Community Room.

Chess and Game Club

Sharpen your skills and challenge your mind with the master of fun and strategy— Nick Allison! Learn to play chess and a variety of other awesome games. All supplies provided—just bring your game face every Monday at 4:30 PMDon’t miss our annual Water Mancala event on June 23! It’s classic strategy with a splash!

Family Friendly Films

Kick off your summer with our Free Family Friendly Films series—Wednesdays at 1:00 PM! Enjoy new releases including Mufasa: The Lion King on June 11Sonic the Hedgehog 3 on June 18, and Paddington in Peru on June 25—all on the big screen. All ages welcome, kids 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party (14+). Join us for an afternoon of movie fun in the Community Room!

Young League of Writers

Teen writers—get ready! Join us Wednesday, June 11 for Young League of Writers. Prep for the summer Teen Writing Contest and create short stories inspired by comics! Teens ages 12–18, meet us in the Community Room from 4:00–5:30 PM. Let your imagination soar—and bring a friend!

Teen Crafts

Get creative this summer! Join us on Thursdays at 4:30 PM to learn a new craft, try something different, and hang out with other teens. All supplies provided — just bring your imagination! On June 12 we’re making jewelry and June 26 is Book Making!

Teen Dungeons & Dragons

Calling all teen adventurers! Join us for Dungeons & Dragons on Fridays, June 13 & 27 at 3:30 PM in the Community Room. Whether you’re a seasoned hero or a curious beginner, this classic role-playing game lets you create your own character, choose your story path, and roll the dice to determine your fate! Experienced players can bring their own characters (5th Edition rules), or try out one of our pre-made adventurers—perfect for those just starting out. For aspiring Dungeon Masters, June 27th is Dungeon Master Boot Camp, when we’ll learn what it takes to build a dungeon. Ages 12-18, ready your swords and spells… the journey awaits!

Teen LEGO Club

Are you a brick magician, block head, or just looney for LEGOs? Join us in the Community Room for creative challenges, friendly fun, and all the bricks you can build with! On June 17 at 4 PM it’s a Brick-a-Palooza with LEGO Carnival Games and Challenges!

AsiaPop!

Join us for a Studio Ghibli Summer filled with movies, crafts, and snacks! On Friday, June 20 from 3:30 to 5:30 PM, we’ll watch Howl’s Moving Castle and make Calcifer keychains or earrings. For teens ages 12–18. Meet in the Community Room!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Cook with a Book

Teens ages 12–18 are invited to read, cook, and snack together! Join us in the Community Room on Wednesdays at 4:00 PM to try recipes inspired by popular books. On June 25, we’re diving into Dungeons and Drama and making pizza.

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Armchair Traveler Challenge: Apprentice Artist

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair travelers will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Ages 15 and up will join the adult challenge, while 14 years and younger will be enrolled in the Junior Apprentice challenge. Sign up today at the Library Circulation Desk! See more details here.

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Upcoming Board of Trustees Elections for 2025

Upcoming Board of Trustees Elections for 2025

Upcoming Board of Trustees Elections for 2025

Election Information

Special Districts holding elections in May:
Madison Library District Trustee
Election Day:
May 20th
Begin Mailing Absentee Ballots:
April 10, 2025
Early Voting Begins in the Clerk’s Office:
May 5, 2025  8:15-4:45 Monday-Friday until May 16, 2025 @ 5:00 PM
Click here to download a sample ballot.

Story Time: Something NEW in March

Reading a ”new” book with your child can be an enchanting and exciting experience! After your child selects a new book, perhaps about a favorite topic like dinosaurs, trains, or animals, take a “picture walk,” and flip through pages. Look at the illustrations and try...

Adult Programs April 2026

Creative Writing ClubCalling all storytelling enthusiasts ages 18+! Meet us in the Community Room at 6:00 PM on Wednesdays, April 1, 15, & 29. Share your writing, make new friends, and discuss your favorite work and the passion behind your craft. Let's inspire...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Programs April 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this April for Early Literacy Programs! Toddler Time (Ages 1–3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room.* Enjoy songs, stories, and tactile activities as we explore Fun with...

Teen Programs April 2026

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Select participants ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, April 1 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Chess and Game ClubUnplug and connect at...

Story Time: F is for Flowers

It’s spring! The sun is out, the birds are singing, and we can all be on the lookout for flowers. Spring can seem like a magical time for kids and a big part of that magic is flowers. Looking for the green leaves and stems poking out of the dirt, finding the buds...

Story Time: F is for Fairy Tale

Once upon a time, in a castle far away… Fairy tales might seem like old stories, but reading them has many benefits for children. They can spark imagination and creativity. Magical descriptions can expand a child’s vocabulary. And many fairy tales are a fun way to...

Story Time: F is for Food

Food brings people together. Whether it's a family reunion, a birthday party, dinner time, or even a snack at the park, sharing food enhances cooperation, communication, and caring. So, the next time you read a book with food in it, talk with your child about the role...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddlers: Food

It may not surprise you that many toddlers are picky eaters, preferring foods like macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, and fruit snacks. This is actually normal, but you can help them develop their palate and move toward healthier eating—though you might have to be...

Story Time: F is for Friends

For some children, making friends can be difficult, but practicing at home can help. Try some of the strategies found at PBS Kids for Parents. Then read a book about friends and talk about how the characters used the strategies and what happened.Join us Tuesdays, and...

Kids ‘n’ Tween Activities March 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this March for Early Literacy Programs! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and tactile activities as we explore FOOD! Book...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for Girls

Meet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around! Soon, she’s caught up with a witch, a jinn, a death-dealing talking bird, a stone prince, and some oily wizards.

Join us on Thursday, May 1, at 6:30 PM in the Community Room as we discuss Patricia C. Wrede’s Dealing with Dragons! This will be our last book club for readers ages 8-11 and their accompanying adults before Summer Reading. See you there!

Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us on Friday, May 2, at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for a showing of Dog Man (PG)!

All ages are welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the film to ensure it’s right for your little movie fans!

Armchair Traveler Challenge: Apprentice Artist

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair travelers will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Sign up today at the Library Circulation Desk!

Summer Reading is Coming!

Programs are limited in May while we prepare, including no early literacy (Story Time, etc.)

Sign-ups will begin Monday, June 2!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

May Adult Programs

May Adult Programs

May Adult Programs

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Crafty Corner

Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up for adults 18+ who love to create! Bring your knitting, crocheting, cross-stitching, or whatever craft you enjoy, and spend an evening with fellow makers.

We meet Every First Thursday at 6:30 PM, so join us this month on May 1st in the Activity Room. Relax, connect, and get inspired—let’s get crafty!

Free Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us on Friday, May 2, at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for a showing of Dog Man (PG)!

All ages are welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the film to ensure it’s right for your little movie fans!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Take a Break Book Club

Against all odds, a small, scrappy racehorse captured the heart of a nation. Join us on Thursday, May 22, at 6:30 PM in the Community Room as we discuss Laura Hillenbrand’s Seabiscuit—a riveting true story of perseverance, hope, and the power of an underdog.

Readers ages 18+ are invited to dive into this unforgettable tale and enjoy a lively discussion. See you there!

Armchair Traveler Challenge

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair artists will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Sign up at the Library Circulation Desk!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Summer Reading is Coming!

Programs are limited in May while we prepare. Sign-ups begin online and at the Library on Monday, June 2!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

May Teen Programs

May Teen Programs

May Teen Programs

Teen Action Council

The Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, May 7 in the Community Room at 4 PM!

Family Friendly Films

Looking for a fun movie afternoon on the big screen? Join us on Friday, May 2, at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for a showing of Dog Man (PG)!

All ages are welcome, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible party aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen the film to ensure it’s right for your little movie fans!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Armchair Traveler Challenge: Apprentice Artist

Reading can inspire creativity and we are painting a masterpiece! Take an epic journey with us this year as we explore the world of art, from color and style to history and industry. Armchair travelers will read books to create a portfolio of canvases that earn them opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will receive small prizes along the way. Ages 15 and up will join the adult challenge, while 14 years and younger will be enrolled in the Junior Apprentice challenge. Sign up today at the Library Circulation Desk! See more details here.

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Idaho Teen Reading Challenge

Teens ages 12-18—are you ready for the Idaho Teen Reading Challenge? Sign up today at Madison Library District, Madison Jr. High Library, Madison High School Library, or online with the Beanstack app!

Read 8 books from 10 different categories and track your progress on Beanstack or with paper trackers, journals, or bookmarks available at all three libraries. For every book you finish, grab a prize at the Circulation desk or during visiting librarian days at your school library!

Complete the challenge by May 1 to be entered into a drawing for a $30 gift card AND help your library earn books! Let’s get reading!

Color Our World

Summer Reading is Coming! 

Programs are limited in May while we prepare. Sign-ups begin Monday, June 2!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Storytime: B is for Birthday

Happy Birthday!
Children eagerly look forward to their next birthday with excitement and anticipation each year. But did you know birthdays can also be valuable learning experiences? They can help children develop an understanding of time and age, explore family values and traditions, and even learn empathy and the joy of giving.

When planning your child’s next celebration, consider incorporating one of these fun and meaningful activities:

  • Role-Play Parties – Pretend birthday parties with dolls or stuffed animals encourage storytelling, creativity, and empathy.

  • Make-Your-Own Cupcake Station – Following simple steps to decorate their own cupcakes builds independence and sequencing skills.

  • Birthday Calendar Craft – Marking the birthdays of family members helps kids learn about months, numbers, and names.

  • “All About Me” Poster – Creating a poster with drawings or pictures helps children express themselves and build self-awareness.

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Moving to music, dancing, swaying, running, and jumping help young children feel rhythm and begin to understand how their bodies work. Such movements help them gain muscle control and improve balance. All of this contributes to a child’s gross motor development. ~Reading Picture Books with Children by Lambert

Activity

Using a scarf, washcloth, or a towel practice tossing and catching while singing the rhyme, “Toss Your Scarves.” You can also sing and play the familiar rhyme, “Pat-a-Cake”, with your child. This will help them develop hand-eye coordination.

Books Presented

Book cover for I Got You a Present! by Mike Kellie-Erskine

I Got You a Present! by Mike Erskine-Kellie

In this hilarious and heartfelt story, our narrator is invited to a friend’s birthday party and wants to get them a truly amazing present. Maybe a dinosaur? Or an apple juice-fueled jet pack? Or how about a rocket ship to outer space! Unfortunately, our narrator can’t quite pull together the perfect birthday present, and time is running out! Maybe the perfect gift doesn’t need to be big and flashy after all.
Book cover for Happy Birthday, Moon by Frank Asch

Happy Birthday, Moon by Frank Asch

Moonbear discovers that he and the moon share the same birthday. Now Moonbear wants to give his nighttime friend a present. But what do you buy the moon?
Book cover for The Secret Birthday Message by Eric Carle

The Secret Birthday Message by Eric Carle

By following the instructions in the coded message, Tim finds his birthday present.
Book cover for Click, Clack, Surprise! by Doreen Cronin

Click, Clack, Surprise! by Doreen Cronin

Little Duck wants to look good for his birthday party so he observes how his barnyard buddies clean up, but what works for the other animals does not work for Little Duck, and he ends up messier than before.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Candles

Five candles on a birthday cake
Five, and not one more.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves four!

Four candles on a birthday cake
There for all to see.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves three!

Three candles on a birthday cake
Standing straight and true.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves two!

Two candles on a birthday cake
Helping us have fun.
You may blow one candle out…
And that leaves one!

On candle on a birthday cake
We know its task is done.
You may blow this candle out…
And that leaves none! Make a wish!

Source: Storytime Katie

Toss Your Scarves

Tune: Jingle Bells
Toss your scarves, toss your scarves
Toss them way up high.
Toss your scarves up in the air,
‘til they reach the sky.

Wave your scarves, wave your scarves,
Twirl them ‘round and ‘round.
Twirl your scarves one more time,
Then let them, all fall down.

If You’re Happy and You Know It

If you’re happy and you know it, wave your scarf.
If you’re happy and you know it, wave your scarf.
If you’re happy and you know it, your face will surely show it.
If you’re happy and you know it, wave your scarf.

*peek-a-boo, wave it high, wave it low, shake it fast, shake it slow.

Birthday Months

If your birthday is in January, turn around
If your birthday is in February, touch the ground…

(March, march along; April, sing a song;  May, wiggle your nose; June, shake your toes;  July, jump up high; 
August, reach the sky;  September, tap your shoe;  October, call out “Boo!”;  November, tickle your ears;
December, give three cheers)

Source: Storytime Katie

Birthday Cake Draw and Tell Story

Linda Meuse
Notes from the Story Room
March 21, 2013
 
 
Even though it was raining outside (Draw 1), it was bright and cheery inside Mike’s house.  The family was getting ready for his little sister Katie’s birthday party. Mike was helping. He put plates on the table. (Draw 2) Then he put a fork on one side and a spoon on the other side of each plate. (Draw 3) He helped his dad hang colorful streamers over the table. (Draw 4) He put two presents for his sister on the table. One was from him and the other was from his mom and dad. (Draw 5) Mike checked all around to make sure that everything was ready for the party. (Draw 6) Mike smiled a big smile. (Draw 7) Now it was time for the party to start and he couldn’t wait to have some yummy BIRTHDAY CAKE!

 
Drawing sequence:
1. Draw candle flames
2. Draw the top of the cake (be sure to leave room for the candles)
3. Draw the sides of the cake
4. Draw the decoration on the cake
5. Draw the candles and add the stripes
6. Draw the cake plate
7. Draw the bottom of the cake

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a kitten and a birthday cake.

Kitten Birthday coloring page

 

 

Make your own party hats from cardstock.

Party Hat Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Little Lion Girl by Olivia Hope

Happy Birthday discovery kit

Kit contains:
Book: Happy birthday from the very hungry caterpillar, by Eric Carle.
Book: How do dinosaurs say happy birthday?, by Jane Yolen.
Book: The night before my birthday, by Natasha Wing.
Book: Curious George and the birthday surprise, By H. A. Rey.
Book: Happy birthday, Fiona, by Zondervan.
Book: Carl’s birthday, by Alexandra Day.
Book: Happy birthday to you!, by Dr. Seuss.
Book: Grumpy monkey party time!, by Suzanne Lang.
Game: Birthday party cake, A mix-n-match wooden toy (6 pieces of cake, 6 candles, 1 cake plate, 1 cake server, & 10 toppings).
Toy: Colorful crown, by Lingana (ribbon attached).
Book cover for The Law of Birthdays: A Story About Choice by Brenna Jeanneret

The Law of Birthdays: A Story About Choice by Brenna Jeanneret

When one girl doesn’t want to eat cake on the king’s birthday, the two launch into a battle of wills and a discussion of choice.
Book cover for Party Rex by Molly Idle

Party Rex by Molly Idle

Rex invites all of his friends over to celebrate his tenth birthday
Book cover for The Brighter I Shine by Kamee Abrahamian

The Brighter I Shine by Kamee Abrahamian

For one Armenian child, birthdays are days for decorating the house with bunches of rose and mint and sumac, for eating beef dumplings with garlic yoghurt, and for baking cakes with family and friends. But birthdays are also a time for telling stories–stories of ancestors and homelands, of births and new beginnings, and of the land their family now calls home. Because stories make up who we are, they are like rivers that lead into oceans, like seeds that fall from flowers, like pages of this book that come from trees. And the more stories that are told, the brighter this little child shines. A magical tale about finding yourself in the stories of your ancestors and keeping their memories alive

More Story Times

Story Time: Something NEW in March

Reading a ”new” book with your child can be an enchanting and exciting experience! After your child selects a new book, perhaps about a favorite topic like dinosaurs, trains, or animals, take a “picture walk,” and flip through pages. Look at the illustrations and try...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Programs April 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this April for Early Literacy Programs! Toddler Time (Ages 1–3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room.* Enjoy songs, stories, and tactile activities as we explore Fun with...

Story Time: F is for Flowers

It’s spring! The sun is out, the birds are singing, and we can all be on the lookout for flowers. Spring can seem like a magical time for kids and a big part of that magic is flowers. Looking for the green leaves and stems poking out of the dirt, finding the buds...

Story Time: F is for Fairy Tale

Once upon a time, in a castle far away… Fairy tales might seem like old stories, but reading them has many benefits for children. They can spark imagination and creativity. Magical descriptions can expand a child’s vocabulary. And many fairy tales are a fun way to...

Story Time: F is for Food

Food brings people together. Whether it's a family reunion, a birthday party, dinner time, or even a snack at the park, sharing food enhances cooperation, communication, and caring. So, the next time you read a book with food in it, talk with your child about the role...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddlers: Food

It may not surprise you that many toddlers are picky eaters, preferring foods like macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, and fruit snacks. This is actually normal, but you can help them develop their palate and move toward healthier eating—though you might have to be...

Story Time: F is for Friends

For some children, making friends can be difficult, but practicing at home can help. Try some of the strategies found at PBS Kids for Parents. Then read a book about friends and talk about how the characters used the strategies and what happened.Join us Tuesdays, and...

Kids ‘n’ Tween Activities March 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this March for Early Literacy Programs! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and tactile activities as we explore FOOD! Book...

Story Time: Something NEW, just for YOU! plus Skating

Check out some of these great new books at the library! They will have you spinning circles on the ice, sharing kindness in a variety of ways, and laughing out loud! And don’t forget the awesome application and extension activities, too.Join us Tuesdays, and...

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...