In elementary school, our local library was my favorite retreat. Participating in every reading event they offered and knowing the librarians by name, it was a place a shy kid like me could go to explore the world. My years as a youth desk assistant gave me the power to pass behind the desk and use the checkout stamper (“yes, the REAL stamper”, I was sure to boast). No doubt I was the absolute envy of my 4th-grade peers.

I had no idea as a kid that I would actually go on to study Library and Computer Science in college, but my years at the Ridgewood Public Library helped shape the book lover I’ve become.

Here are a few gifts I’ve curated that would have been on the top of my wish list when I was a budding reader. I hope that they inspire you to encourage the little ones in your life to consider reading as a hobby and not just homework assignment!

Knock Knock Personal Library Kit

Amazon.com | ($13.97)

There’s no better way to start a family reading habit then setting up your very own library. Kids can place these self-adhesive pockets inside their favorite books, and “check them out” to Mom and Dad for reading nights. Older kids can begin lessons about sharing literature by starting a lending club among friends.

(6 x 7.5 x 1.25 inches; 20 self-adhesive pockets and checkout cards; date stamp and inkpad; pencil)

 

Book Lovers Club Pin

Pin from thecleverclove on Etsy | ($9.99)

“Book lovers, make it official and join the Book Lovers Club with this shiny pin!” Let the world know that you are dedicated to reading and one smart kid to buddy-up with for reading projects. Pins, button, and patches are back in fashion for 2018 so this is an on-trend statement your reader can display.

This original design is ade of the highest quality hard enamel with gold plating and rubber clutch. Measures 1.18″ x .1.18″.”

 

 

Personalized Bookmark

Bookmark from SpotLightJewelry on Etsy | ($14.00)

Each personalized bookmark features your choice of a unique metal charm and custom color glass birthstone bead. The bookmarks are flat so they won’t indent the book and the charms dangle stylishly over the spine, no matter how thick the book.

They are eye-catching and the perfect size, add a little something special to your favorite books and are a great way to make the reading experience feel more personal for older kids.

 

“Reading, Do Not Disturb” Hanger Sign

Amazon | ($6.99)

Kids’ rooms are their sanctuaries and reading time deserves special notice.  Whether you’re trying to keep intruders out or invite visitors inside, a cute door hanger will ensure that all who enter know exactly what to expect on the other side of the door.

Made of a 3.5″ x 9.5″ durable thick plastic and printed on one side with UV- and water-resistant inks, these hangers will hold up well to either indoor or outdoor use. The hole is a universal size, large enough for use with all standard door knobs.

 

Rechargeable LED Book Light

Amazon | ($12.99)

Bedtime means light’s out, but if the kids can’t sleep and naturally go for a book at night, it’s better they read with proper lighting then strain in the darkness.

This clever 3-ounce bendable light drapes around the reader’s neck to provide light with 4-variations form almost any angle. I was notorious for laying on my back and reading practically upside down–this would have been my favorite light!

Another bonus us that takes only 3 hours to get fully charged by USB and can last up to 8-9 hours with high brightness and 12 hours with normal brightness. No batteries, non-toxic, and easy to operate. 

 

Reading Journal

Amazon ($12.95 – $22.50)

The best lesson we can teach our kids about reading to take time to digest what we’ve read and learned from it. It’s not about plowing through a list, rather, good readers will learn early on that literacy is built from layering elements from everything we read in life.

The “Reading Journals for Kids” books below are great in that they come with suggestions for books at that particular level, so even busy parents can get through library days with a plan of attack. “My Bibliofile” provides a clean format for slightly older readers who are ready to tackle the task themselves.