How to Build Your Child’s Home Library

Studies have shown that the more books your child has in their home library, the earlier your child will learn to read. You can build their library and give them the best chance for success without breaking the bank.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. GIFTS-Children usually have more toys than which they can play. Instead of toys for birthdays and holidays, ask friends and family members to give your child a favorite book instead. This is a chance for grandparents and other relatives to share their favorite childhood stories with the next generation. Cost: Free

2. DOLLY PARTON-Do you live in an area covered by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library? The organization sends children a free book per month until they are five. Check their website to see if your area participates. If it is currently unavailable in your community, contact your local Parents as Teachers, library, or United Way affiliate and suggest they apply. Cost: Free.

3. GARAGE SALES-Garage sales are wonderful ways to find major bargains. You can pick up like-new books for as little as 25¢. Check newspapers for ads advertising books or children’s items. Cost: 25¢-$1

4. LIBRARY SALES- Does the Friends of your public library hold book sales? If so, this is a wonderful way to build your child’s book collection and support the library at the same time. Cost: 25¢-$5.

5. THRIFT STORES-Check out the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and other thrift stores. The last time I was in the Salvation Army, a book seller had donated a large box of new children’s books. They would have made wonderful birthday presents at only 25¢ apiece. Cost: 25¢-$2

6. SWAP-Organize a community or school book swap. Each person brings books they no longer read or want and exchange them for different ones. Your children will gain new books to read, and their old books will find a new life in the hands of other children. Cost: Free.

7. ONLINE-If you are looking for a specific title or author, check online stores. Sites such as Amazon and Overstock.com will often offer books for 25-67% off the suggest retail price. Look for sites that offer free or reduced shipping for an even better deal. Cost: $3-30.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit your public library often! They have a large selection of children's books, and can help you find more titles your child might enjoy.
• Read to your child EVERY DAY. Children need to be read to at least 15 minutes per day. (You can spread it out.)
• Don't forget to read yourself. If children see you reading, they are more likely to enjoy reading themselves.

Resources

• Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
• Amazon
• Overstock.com

[Runkin]

on 1/27/2009 Books are a great alternative to toys as a gift. I didn't know about the Dolly Parton program. Thanks for the idea!

[vallain]

on 1/26/2009 Excellent ideas for finding books for your child's personal library. You can also make your own books with drawings or photos and hand written pages stapled together. It's a fun project.

[rewrite810]

on 1/12/2009 Very practical and easy tips to follow, thanks! 5*!

[FrazzledNanny]

on 1/8/2009 Great tips. All of my children receive books for Christmas and birthdays. They all love to read.

[amylaine]

on 1/3/2009 Great tips. This year my son's kindergarten glass did a book exchange instead of a regular gift exchange. It worked out great and not only did he get to take special care in picking a book for someone else, he received a book that he cherishes because a classmate gave it to him.