This article was authored by Publisher Spotlight intern Zoe Spangler.
Libraries are more than just places filled with dusty books and information databases; they’re vital community centers open to everyone, regardless of status or background. They provide social access for older adults, the wherewithal to enrich child-raising support for parents, language connection for immigrants, and welcoming environments for the impoverished, homeless, as well as young readers. By offering free and equitable access to resources for learning, cultural preservation, and economic opportunities, libraries remain critical educational hubs and guardians of knowledge. This commitment to inclusivity, along with an ongoing ability to adapt to the changing world around us, has allowed public libraries to thrive even in political conflict and rapid technological change.
Despite all they offer, libraries are often overlooked or undervalued. That’s why it’s now more important than ever to share stories that uplift libraries. In this selection of books showcasing the impact young people can have on literacy, we hope to inspire young readers to appreciate, support, and advocate for the library community during this crucial time.
HOW TO SAVE A LIBRARY
Preserving libraries often means collaborating with friends and communities. In How to Save a Library from Pajama Press, Casey teams up with his community’s Kids Community Action Network (C.A.N.) to raise money for repairs to his local library, which is at risk of closing. He must find a way to work with Addison—a former friend, turned not-so-friend—to save the one place in the world that feels like home, especially after years of moving from one city to another with his father. Award-winning author Colleen Nelson weaves together a story rich in heart and humor, demonstrating the power of libraries to bring communities together. This inspiring story shows young readers the value of local libraries.
OUR INCREDIBLE LIBRARY BOOKS (AND THE WONDERFUL ADVENTURE IT TOOK)
Celebrate the power a well loved library book can have on communities in Our Incredible Library Book (and the Wonderful Journeys It Took) from Floris Books. This story follows a particular library book that is very special to its community. It’s been hugged, lost, torn, chewed by a dog, and soaked in the rain. It’s been read in apartments and in tents, by children wearing costumes and pajamas, reading alone and with their families. Each time it returns to the library, the book is a little more worn, but a lot more loved. Author Caroline Crow’s playful, rhyming text and John Joseph’s joyful illustrations capture the magic of a well-loved library book. Young readers will enjoy the clever details and heartfelt message throughout, and they may be inspired to make it their own book, just as well-loved.
THE LIBRARY BUS
Next, take a ride on The Library Bus, a story from Pajama Press inspired by the first library bus to operate in Kabul, Afghanistan. Five-year-old Pari accompanies her mother on the library bus and learns how lucky she is to attend school. Pari’s mother had to learn in secret when it was forbidden to teach girls to read and write. The young women the bus visits weekly have no other access to education. Author Bahram Rahman’s storytelling, paired with Gabrielle Grimard’s beautiful illustrations, emphasizes the value of education for readers. This impactful story shows young readers the importance of literacy around the world.
NOUR’S SECRET LIBRARY
Finally, discover another story about the power of books to heal, transport, and create safe spaces in difficult times through Barefoot Book’s Nour’s Secret Library. In this impactful story, Young Nour and her cousin create a secret underground library while they shelter from the bombings that plague their Syrian city. In this story, based on author Wafa Tarnowska’s experience, readers are invited to explore themes of hope and human resilience. The illustrations by Romanian artist Vali Mintzi beautifully layer the colorful world the children construct over black-and-white charcoal images of the war-torn city. This story emphasizes the importance of reading during times of conflict and highlights the cultural role of libraries and knowledge, especially during times of crisis.
Across all these different stories, there is one thing for sure. Libraries are powerful forces for connection, creativity, and resilience. They provide a safe space during a crisis, spark a young reader’s imagination, and unite communities to save beloved spaces. Each book reminds us that libraries remain because people care enough to protect them. By celebrating these stories, we not only honor the role libraries play in our lives but also empower the next generation to understand their value. Even small acts of advocacy can make a lasting difference.