Story Tags

A is for Anacostia

Exploring Our Nation's Capital

Washington, D.C. For Young Readers

Welcome to Washington, D.C. little ones--where there are monuments, museums, legislators and history everywhere you look. Whether you’re born and raised here or move here from near or far, there’s so much to learn about this city we call home. The library is a great place to start! Check out these ten books for young readers (babies, toddlers and elementary school ages) about our nation’s capital. 

Queen of Physics

Women in STEM

Picture Book Biographies to Inspire

Are you looking for some inspiration? Picture book biographies are a great place to start! They provide concise, interesting looks into the lives of fascinating people--some household names and some new discoveries--and they feature artwork that draws you into the story too! Biographies for younger readers can be found in the JUV 92 section of your local public library--but these picture books are great introductions to women excelling in science, technology, engineering and math--and can be read no matter your age! There is something to be learned for everyone!

Around American to Win the Vote

Celebrating Female Suffrage

Books for Kids and Tweens

August 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, the Constitutional amendment that granted women the right to vote nationally. To celebrate, the entire year will be full of chances to learn about the 19th Amendment and to teach about and celebrate the women known as suffragettes, who fought for the 19th Amendment and for their ability to engage in the political process. 

Abe Lincoln at Last

Abe Lincoln in Children's Literature

While most children are introduced to American history in the classroom, it’s never too early to introduce them to historical figures, like President Abraham Lincoln! Lincoln is one of the most recognizable presidents in American history, and even before they enter school children may recognize “Lincoln” in top hats, tall presidents and the Lincoln Memorial. Living in Washington, D.C. makes his presence even more obvious, for many.

Black Heroes of the Revolution

The American Revolution for Kids

While most children in the United States learn about the American Revolution in school, you don’t have to wait until it is introduced in the classroom to talk to them about that moment in history, and you don’t have to rely on textbooks to do so! The DC Public Library has a great selection of books for children of all ages about the people and moments of the American Revolution. Try dipping your toe into one of these fascinating books and you may learn a thing or too!

Let's Dance!

Twinkle Toes

Dance books for kids

Are your kids tired of staying inside, or are you a young person in search of a cool summer activity? Try dancing at home! This collection of story books and non-fiction books for toddlers and grade school-aged children is sure to get anyone tapping and twirling.

Where the Watermelons Grow cover

Stay At Home Family Book Club Picks

Great Books for the Whole Family to Read & Discuss During Self-Quarantine

Being cooped up at home with your family 24/7 can be stressful, no matter how much you love them. Everyone needs entertainment and intellectual stimulation, and a bit of quiet time to themselves. During this self-quarantine period, it can be hard to find enough of the first two, and any of the third. So I’ve put together this list of 10 excellent middle grade books that the entire family can read and discuss. If you're seeking something that is educational, quiet, and promotes family bonding, then look no further! All the books on this list had to meet four simple criteria:

If Elephants Disappeared

Save These Endangered Animals

Children's books on animal conservation

We all have the responsibility of keeping the Earth, its resources, its habitats, and its animals safe from extinction for both ourselves and future generations. Unfortunately, according to a recent Forbes article ranking countries with endangered species, the United States is number six in the world.

little leaders

Leaders and Dreamers

Women's History Festival with Vashti Harrison book selections

DC Public Library will be on hand for Leaders and Dreamers: Women's History Festival with Vashti Harrison at The National Portrait Gallery Saturday, March 14, 11:30 a.m.

How Chipmunk Got His Stripes

Origin Stories

How people got rain, night, fire and more

People didn’t always know what caused storms or earthquakes, so they invented stories to explain the inexplicable. Perhaps lightning flashes across the sky when Zeus is angry. Perhaps earthquakes are caused by the writhing of Loki who is imprisoned under the surface of the Earth while poison drips on his face.

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