Finding a Good Book

Open book filled with varied images like a dog, a girl with a red umbrella, and a hot air balloon
Are you having trouble finding books that you or your child would enjoy reading? I've always been a voracious reader, but I remember as a young adult getting stuck reading just one genre or rereading my favorite books or authors. I didn't know what other books were out there that I'd enjoy. After I came to work at MCPL, my reading life expanded greatly.

Being exposed to a variety of engaging books and customers with different reading preferences gives our librarians a wealth of book knowledge that we can't wait to share. We're here to help you find the right book at the right time for you or your child!

Programs
Events are a fabulous way to discover new books for you or your child. We have more storytimes than ever. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers can start the magical journey to becoming lifelong readers. At storytimes, you can learn how to get your child ready to read. We also offer special storytimes like bilingual and pajama storytimes.

Young children can also sign up for our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program. Reading to a child expands his or her vocabulary exponentially and it is a great bonding experience that will create life-long memories. Children can also engage in early literacy experiences like fingerplays or singing a song. Sign your child up today!

Colorful seascape with 2 yellow fish and the words 1000 Books Before Kindergarten
There are many children's programs to delight your elementary school age children too. If you have a new or reluctant reader, try one of our read to a dog programs. Reading to wonderful certified therapy dogs enables kids to gain reading confidence and skills Our dogs are ideal companions who listen attentively without judgment. It's a pawsitive experience!

And don't forget about book discussions! These are lively events where you can meet new friends and deepen your understanding of books. We have book discussions at branches throughout the county. There are also book discussions that have a specific focus, such as our African American, Chinese, FrenchJewish, mystery, and talking books discussion groups. Thinking about starting your own book discussion? We've got tips and reading suggestions to get you started.

Reading Suggestions
It's never too early to start reading to your babies. We also have books for older children who are reading on their own, whether they are comfortable readers or beginners. We have booklists on many favorite genres from adventure to trains on our Kids' page as well as diverse booklists by grade that will be mirrors and windows for your children. Does your child have a favorite book or author? Try NoveList K-8 Plus for reading suggestions based on books or authors that your child has enjoyed.

brother and sister reading at OlneyFor teens there are a variety of popular "if you like" and topical booklists, on subjects like dystopian worlds and road trips, on our Teensite. Our librarians who love teen books have also compiled some great diverse books to read for middle and high school students. Be sure to have a look at our Teen Pinterest board and YouTube playlist Teen Talk! which includes fun videos of MCPL staff and teens talking up their favorite teen titles!

Let's not forget about the adults. Have a look at our entertaining reading suggestions on Readers' Cafe. These include our We Recommend and Librarian's Choice selections. You can also find What We're Reading and more on our Pinterest boards. We also have NoveList Plus for adults with reading suggestions based on books or authors you have enjoyed. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, Library Matters where you can get to know our staff and get the inside scoop on what fabulous books they're reading. For parents or caregivers I highly recommend the episodes "Reading Aloud to a Child" Parts 1 and Part 2.

Ask MCPL Librarians
people reading at a cafe and text: What Do I Check Out Next
If you're stuck, or just looking for a personal book recommendation for you or your child, you can always ask us, the reading experts! You can ask our librarians in-person at any of our branches. Or you can ask us online through our award winning What Do I Check Out Next? service. Just complete the form and we'll email you 3-5 book recommendations in 3 business days.

At MCPL we're here to help you or your child discover your next favorite read! Happy reading!

Susan

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