Brooklyn Public Library offers the parents of babies, kids and teens a wide array of resources and services, both in our libraries and on the web. Go to Books & Beyond for information on how to get your child a library card, great book lists for babies to teens, and other resources like online encyclopedias.  Check out our Parenting Links for helpful websites to help child become a life-long learner.  

Every year, Brooklyn Public Library offers thousands of programs for babies, children and teens, including story times, after-school homework help, arts and crafts programs, and more. Search our calendar of events for times and locations.

Special Events & Resources for Parents

Summer Reading

Summer Reading combats “Summer Slide”, a phenomenon that affects children who stop reading over the summer. “Summer Slide” means that students actually lose some of the reading skills they gained during the school year and start the new school year behind where they finished the last. Active reading during the summer months prevents summer slide. Click Here for booklists, special events and activities to help keep your children reading this summer.

First Five Years (birth-5)

In the first five years of life, nearly 50% of a child's learning occurs. Early reading experiences lay the foundation for future learning to come. Through experiences with books in language-rich environments, young children develop the skills they will need to be successful in school and life. First Five Years is Brooklyn Public Library's innovative early literacy initiative. Please visit the First Five Years site for information on reading to your baby, songs and rhymes, and First Five Years events.
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Ready, Set, Kindergarten! programs (3 - 5 years)

In this special six session series, families will enjoy stories and activities designed to encourage the development of early learning skills. Exploring literacy, science, and math through music, stories, and play will help you and your child get ready for school! Ready, Set, Kindergarten! will return to select branches this summer. 

Common Core Standards

Find tips and resources to understand the Common Core Standards and how to support your child's learning.
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The Child's Place for Children with Special Needs (birth-12)

At Brooklyn Public Library, there's a place where all children can relax, play and have fun. The Child's Place for Children with Special Needs provides unique programs for children with and without disabilities from birth to age 12. Programs include after-school story time, toys for tots, parenting workshops and hospital storytelling.
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Homework Help (grades k-12)

BPL offers access to many great sites for homework help. In addition, check our calendar of events for after-school homework help, tutoring, and other educational opportunities.  Don't forget about BPL's rich collection of online encyclopedias and databases for help with tricky research assignments. 
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Databases for Kids >
Homework Help for Teens >
Homework Help flyer >

Brooklyn Coloring Book (all ages)

Brooklyn is full of interesting landmarks. Explore the borough and learn fun facts with your family through our Brooklyn coloring pages.
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Resources for Teens

Additional Ways to Graduate

Is your teen looking for additional ways to graduate from high school? If so, refer to the Department of Education's Additional Ways to Graduate guidebook.

Opportunities Abound!

Check our Opportunities Abound! page to find out first about job opportunities, internships, contests and more. Be sure to check out our Scholarships page too.

Teens lead busy lives and often find themselves juggling homework and their social lives all while planning for the future. Luckily BPL offers a wide range of resources, programs, and services to support teens from SAT practice tests to meaningful volunteer opportunities. When it's time to relax they can read the latest graphic novels, hang out at Teen Time, or rock out on Guitar Hero at our gaming programs. Search our calendar of events for programs at your neighborhood library.