Just like there are many kinds of books, there are many kinds of storytimes! Some are high-energy dance parties, others are calm and cozy lap sessions, and many are designed with specific ages and developmental stages in mind. By offering a mix of formats, locations, and styles, libraries can welcome every family — whether they’re early risers, evening adventurers, sensory seekers, or little wigglers who just can’t sit still. A variety of storytimes means more chances for connection, more ways to build early literacy skills, and more joyful moments where children and caregivers feel right at home in the library. Here are a few fun varieties to consider.
Pajama Storytime
What: Cozy, comfy, and calming, these storytimes may have a sleepover party vibe, but often they are a quiet time for winding down with a favorite grownup before bed. Stories shared tend to revolve around going to sleep (or maybe trying not to), nighttime animals, or have a calming effect. Pretend snoring is recommended.
Who: Families looking for a low-key evening outing they can enjoy together, or families who can’t attend morning sessions.
Let NoveList help: Customers can search books for quiet time in NoveList Plus to find soothing, low-key stories for Pajama Storytime.
Music and Movement Storytime
What: These storytimes are energetic and a little bit of a workout. Books shared during Music and Movement programs often encourage audience participation either through movement or by making some noise. Likewise, songs shared will invite you to dance with your whole body and may include things like shakers, scarves, or bells.
Who: If you know of a young wiggler who doesn’t like to sit still and needs to get some serious energy out before naptime, Music and Movement storytimes are calling them.
Let NoveList help: Take the course Terrific Toddler Reads: Book Picks from the Experts for tips and recommendations on finding the best toddler books for wigglers and for storytime. Available exclusively as part of the Learn with NoveList Plus subscription.
Sensory Storytime templates available in LibraryAware.
Sensory Storytime
What: Designed to engage participants in a sensory friendly environment using stories, songs, music, and movement, these storytimes are fun for all. They may include visual schedules, adjusted lighting, smaller group sizes, and lots of repetition and interaction.
Who: Kids of all abilities, including kids with sensory processing differences, and their families may enjoy a welcoming and inclusive Sensory Storytime.
Let NoveList help: Customers can search sensory storytime in LibraryAware for ready-to-go flyers, widgets, and handouts to help you promote Sensory Storytime.
Outdoor Storytime
What: When the weather warms up, outdoor storytime can be an exciting change of pace. Taking storytime outside lets you explore themes of nature, plants, and insects while enjoying the sunshine and getting some fresh air. It can also be a wonderful partnership opportunity between libraries and nearby parks.
Who: Kids and their caregivers who are at the park or playground, or any child comfortable on a patch of grass outside your library, may want to swing by for some seasonal fun.
Let NoveList help: Core Collections customers can search DE "Storytime standouts" and get a list of expertly curated titles that are exceptional for group sharing.
Baby Storytime
What: This lap-sit storytime is as much for caregivers as it is for babies. Books for Baby storytimes are short, sweet, and have large, clear illustrations. The songs, rhymes, bounces, and tickles shared are designed to encourage interaction between the caregivers and baby and are often modeled by the presenter with a “baby” of their own. A shorter storytime than most, it is followed by playtime for the babies and social time for the grownups.
Who: New or experienced caregivers who want to instill a love of reading in their children and start building early literacy skills from the start. Or who just want to get out of the house and talk to other adults.
Let NoveList help: NoveList Plus has lots of story elements that can help you find great books for baby storytime. Customers can look for books that are tagged as having bold illustrations, or books with minimal text. You can also search for board books or picture books with a grade level of babies/toddlers.
Lauren Campbell is a Senior Readers' Advisory Librarian at NoveList. She is currently reading The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim.
