Best-Loved Book Nooks

Erin Wing - Seattle
September 27, 2011

The big kids are rocking the three R's back at school by now. So, what to do with your littlest bookworms? Cozy up with a good story! Our local reading establishments have plenty of kid-friendly story times to choose from, and they're available every day of the week in all sorts of book nooks around Seattle. Most storytimes are appropriate for the preschool-aged crowd, but since sessions are usually short and interactive, (think reading, finger plays and songs), even younger toddlers and babies will find plenty to love. Build literacy skills and have fun with your budding reader at one of our favorite spots to hit the books. 

Mockingbird Books

For story time anytime, Mockingbird Books is place to land. Monday through Saturdays at 11:00, the kids can hear stories read by knowledgeable Mockingbird staff. Afterwards, enjoy a warm drink at the Finch Café and browse for a new favorite read. Save time to explore the indoor play area, or run out to the nearby Green Lake Playground to really work up an appetite before lunch. Check the Mockingbird Books website for special events and excellent book recommendations!

Elliott Bay Book Company

Elliott Bay Book Company is a longtime local indie favorite, popular with Seattle tykes and parents alike. Now in a new location in the heart of Capitol Hill, you'll find story times at the castle in the children's section on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Be sure to visit on October 8, when Caspar Babypants will be performing his well-loved kiddie tunes at 11:00, followed by a reading of Bunny Rabbit in the Sunlight and My Woodland Wish, two new books that he co-authored with Kate Endle.

Paint Me a Story

The smart folks at Bellevue Art and Frame are combining books and brushes to create a multi-tasking story time masterpiece.  Each Wednesday morning, your little one, aged two and up, can paint while listening to a story related to a weekly theme. Your child can even earn a free book after six visits! Now that's artful storytelling!

Tugboat Storytime

Perhaps your child likes boats with his books?  You're in luck, matey! Sail over to the Historic Ships Wharf at Lake Union Park for Tugboat Storytime two Thursdays a month. Climb aboard a 100 year old tugboat and hear stories with a nautical twist. Afterwards, there will be time for your little sailor to explore the boat.  Be sure to dress in layers, since both indoor and outdoor activities are planned.

The Public Library

Where's the very best place to turn your kid on to reading?  The library, of course! The Seattle Public Library and King County Library systems are loaded with resources for young readers.  Check the online schedules to find story times at your nearest branch.  Visit the awesome Seattle Central Library with its colorful, modern children's section; then explore our area's smaller branches where you'll find a variety of evening and weekend story times to accommodate working parents, as well as story times in other languages, play groups, and unique sessions especially for babies, toddlers and preschool-aged children.