Library Storytimes for Babies and Toddlers in the North Suburbs

Updated November 2026 with local early reading programs.

Almost every public library in Chicago's north and northwest suburbs offers free storytimes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. They usually last 20 to 45 minutes and mix short books, songs, rhymes, movement and sometimes play time afterward. Many are drop-in, and some popular sessions ask families to register.

Here is what to expect, how to find one near you, and two free reading programs worth signing up for.

Types of storytime

Baby storytime (birth to about 18 months)

Short and gentle, with bounces, lap rhymes, simple songs and one or two board books. The goal is to hear rhythm and language together. Many end with open play on a mat, which is a nice way to meet other parents.

Toddler storytime (about 18 months to 3)

More movement, more songs and simple picture books. Toddlers wander, and that is fine. Librarians expect it.

Preschool storytime (about 3 to 5)

Longer books, questions, a craft or activity, and practice sitting in a group. This is good preparation for circle time in preschool.

Special storytimes

Many libraries also offer bilingual or world language storytimes, sensory-friendly sessions, STEM storytimes, music and movement programs, and outdoor storytimes in parks in summer.

Why storytime helps

• Language: babies hear new words, rhymes and rhythm, which builds early literacy skills.
• Routine: a weekly outing gives structure to long days at home on leave.
• Social skills: toddlers practice being in a group, taking turns and listening.
• Parent support: you pick up new songs and book ideas, and meet other families.

See how to encourage early language development in babies and reading to babies.

Libraries in the north and northwest suburbs

Check the events calendar at your local library. Many have separate times for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, plus evening or weekend sessions for working parents. Several also run a free "1,000 Books Before Kindergarten" style program, where families log books read aloud and earn small rewards along the way.

• Glenview Public Library: storytimes for each age, plus 1000 Books Before Kindergarten for children from birth to age 6. You can register at the Youth Services desk or online, and books read at library storytimes count.
• Park Ridge Public Library: storytimes at 20 S. Prospect Avenue, plus Growing Book by Book, its version of the 1,000 books program.
• Indian Trails Public Library, 355 Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling: serves Wheeling, Buffalo Grove and Prospect Heights, with storytimes and the 1K Book Club.
• Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson Street: story and play times for toddlers and preschoolers, world language storytimes, and Raise a Reader, an early literacy program built around singing, talking, reading, writing and playing.
• Palatine Public Library District: baby, toddler and preschool storytimes, and a 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program for cardholders from birth until kindergarten.
• Vernon Area Public Library: serves Lincolnshire and Vernon Hills, with drop-in baby and preschool storytimes. See our Lincolnshire guide.
• Grayslake Area Public Library: right next to Central Park. See our Grayslake guide.
• Chicago Public Library branches on the Northwest Side, such as Portage-Cragin and Austin-Irving. See our Northwest Side guide.

Library cards are usually free for residents of the library's service area. Programs may give priority to cardholders.

Free books by mail: the Imagination Library

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library mails a free, age-appropriate book every month to enrolled children from birth to age 5, regardless of family income. Illinois expanded the program statewide with state matching funds, and as of April 2026 it was available in 93 of the state's 102 counties. Check whether your zip code is covered and sign up at imaginationlibrary.com. It takes only a few minutes.

Tips for your first storytime

• Arrive five to ten minutes early. Popular sessions fill.
• Sit near the door if your child might need a break.
• Join in the songs, even if you do not know them yet. Children copy you.
• It is fine to step out if your child melts down, then come back.
• Check out a few books on the way out to read the same songs and stories at home.

Working parents

If your child is in daycare during the week, look for Saturday or evening family storytimes. Many libraries also post song lists and video storytimes online, and reading programs like 1000 Books Before Kindergarten fit easily into bedtime.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can a baby go to storytime?

Many libraries welcome babies from birth. Baby storytimes are designed for children who are not yet walking.

Are library storytimes free?

Yes. Some special programs ask you to register in advance.

What is 1000 Books Before Kindergarten?

A free library program where families read 1,000 books aloud with a child before kindergarten. Repeat books count. Reading 10 books a week gets you there in about two years.

What if my toddler will not sit still?

That is normal. Librarians expect toddlers to move around.

Do I need a library card for storytime?

Usually not for drop-in programs. Some registered programs and reading clubs are for cardholders.

Books and stories at Children's Land

Every Children's Land classroom has its own library, and reading is part of each day, from board books in our infant program to read-alouds in preschool. Find a location or contact us.

Related reading: Indoor Play Places for Toddlers in Chicago's North Suburbs.