Parenting Collection and Programs

Children don't come with instructions, but that doesn't mean you have to raise your child alone. We have books and videos to help you get through those early days, the tantrums, all the way up to the Birds and the Bees. We support early literacy in pre-readers with special services and programs for them.

We also offer programs throughout the year to address common childhood issues. View upcoming programs

Storytimes and Programs

Storytimes are for babies, toddlers and children up to age 5. The Children's Library offers other programs for children up to age 12. Currently we have a combination of outdoor and virtual storytimes, please check the program listing on the Library's event page for registration details. View Storytime listings

Early Literacy

You can still support early literacy when you’re not at storytime in the library! Just make sure to Talk, Sing, Read, Write, and Play with your child at home and on the go. For more information including tips, book recommendations, and songs check out our Early Literacy page.

Early Literacy iPads (Not Currently Circulating)

Start your pre-reader early on the path to literacy with our Early Literacy iPads. Each iPad comes pre-loaded with apps to help build early literacy skills. The iPads are for children 5 and under. View the current selection of apps

Elementary iPads (Not Currently Circulating)

For children ages 5 to 9-years old, borrow an Elementary iPad. The apps are organized into folders similar to our non-fiction section. App topics: coding, creating, facts, fun, interactive books, math, reading, and science. View the current selection of apps

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

A fun program to encourage adults and children to read together and help introduce children to as much vocabulary as possible before they enter kindergarten. Learn more about this program.

Early Literacy Tips

Follow the Children's Library on Instagram @darienchildrenslibrary for early literacy tips, book recommendations and other fun library related things.

Children's Library Bulletin eNewsletter

Each month the Children and Teen librarians recommend great new reads, highlight books you should be reading, and point you towards your new favorites! Sign up for the Children's Library Bulletin

Book Club Kits

Start your very own book club with Book Club Kits from the Children's Library. Choose a book, check out five copies, and receive a discussion guide in your kit. The guide includes a book summary, discussion questions, and further activities to enhance the reading experience.

• First to Third Graders Book Choices
• Fourth to Sixth Graders Book Choices

Homework Help

Our youth services librarians have curated a list of the best and most helpful resources to assist your child with their homework. The four study guides on American Colonies and Revolution, Connecticut and Darien, Earth and Space, and Western Expansion are aimed at specific school units. View all of the Homework Help resources.

Scout Visits to the Library

Do your Scouts need to earn their Library Badge? Email the Children's Library to schedule your visit.