For many young children, going to story time at the local library is the highlight of their week. But due to new public safety requirements stemming from coronavirus, kids must now stay home for the foreseeable future—which means their day-to-day routines have been thrown off-kilter. Luckily, there are several librarians and authors reading books virtually so kids can maintain a level of normalcy during these uncertain times. Here are some of the top virtual storytimes to check out.
Spokane Public Library
On their public YouTube channel, Spokane Public Library is posting everything from book reviews to cooking and gardening tips. Kids will want to tune in to watch librarian Katie read stories to them.
Verona Public Library
Complete with singing, stories, and even a castle, this YouTube video will help your kids participate in a fun story time experience from the comfort of home.
Grace Lin
Grace Lin, an illustrator and author of picture books and middle-grade novels, is reading her books on her YouTube channel as well as teaching kids how to draw a Chinese dragon, a dog, and more.
Authors Everywhere
If your kids want to watch authors read their favorite books, check out the Authors Everywhere YouTube channel. In addition to readings from a variety of authors, the channel also features writing workshops and activities to give kids a creative outlet for dealing with any fears about the pandemic.
Parker’s House of Stories
Fresno librarian Chelsea Parker is committed to reading stories to kids virtually for as long as shelter in place requirements last (and incorporating all the voices her kids love best into the videos).
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Country singer Dolly Parton is bringing a bit of cheer into kids’ lives with her YouTube channel, where she reads videos that will be released weekly.