Easy, everyday, early literacy support
Library programs for kids 5 and under
Dial-a-Story
Call 416-395-5400 anytime and listen to stories in 16 different languages.
Little Explorers, Big Discoveries
Expand your mind with these recommended STEM reads for kids.
1000 Reads Before Kindergarten
Can you read 1000 books with your child before they start kindergarten? Join the challenge!
Browse Books
Browse our best books for children under 5, and get expert staff recommendations. Encouraging a love of books is a great way to help your child get ready for reading.
Tips For Parents
Sing throughout the day and make up your own silly songs to introduce new vocabulary.
Let's Get Ready for Reading!
Easy, everyday activities that you do with your child help to build important pre-reading skills.
Talk
Talking with your child helps build language and vocabulary skills.
Read
Reading together is the best way to help your child become a strong reader.
Sing
Singing helps your child hear the sounds in words and build their vocabulary.
Play
Play is how children learn, and how they come to understand their world.
Write
Writing helps children learn that letters and words represent sounds and have meaning.
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First and Best
Discover our top picks of Canadian picture books to get your child ready for reading.
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Design a Bookmark Contest
Created by kids. Made for everyone. Look for free bookmarks at your local branch!
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Ready for Reading Research
Learn more about early literacy research.