Kids love attending storytimes at the Amarillo Public Library, but it’s not just a fun time.  Research shows that kids who attend library storytimes read earlier and are better prepared to start school than kids who don’t.

APL Youth Services Coordinator Melody Boren says that’s because, in addition to getting an early start on a love of literature and learning, library storytimes reinforce skills like waiting your turn and being part of a group.  “A kid who has been attending library storytimes from a young age knows what to do when they arrive at preschool or kindergarten on the first day.  They’ve already learned to listen, to answer questions, and be engaged as part of a group of other kids.  Starting storytime early can be the difference between an overwhelming first day of school and an exciting one!”

Each of Amarillo Public Library’s five locations offers at least one storytime per week.  This is the complete list of our current storytimes, along with a description of the different types of storytime events we offer.

DOWNTOWN LIBRARY
Laugh and Learn 
Mondays at 10:30 AM
Classic Storytime
Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

EAST BRANCH
Bilingual Storytime
Fridays at 10:30 AM

NORTH BRANCH
Elementary Age Storytime
Thursdays at 4:30 PM

NORTHWEST BRANCH
Laugh and Learn 
Wednesdays at 10:30 AM
Thursdays at 10:30 AM
Elementary Age Storytime
Saturdays at 11 AM

SOUTHWEST BRANCH
Classic Storytime
Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30 AM
Baby Time
Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

Classic Storytimes often include games or crafts which help develop language and fine motor skills.  They are open to all ages but are especially appropriate and fun for kids ages 3 & up.

Baby Time is geared for pre-walkers age 2 and under.

Laugh and Learn Storytimes are for infants & toddlers.  They include stories, music, and finger play to stimulate learning and teach parents how to make the most of reading and play time.

Elementary Age Storytimes are especially for elementary school kids in grades K-2.  They include more advanced concepts and higher vocabulary than storytimes intended for preschool kids.

Bilingual Storytimes feature stories read in English and Spanish with a complementary activity.