How to find story books in the library
The Children's Library is a space for all children, young people and their parents/carers. We also welcome over 18 years to enjoy our collections – and maybe reconnect with an old childhood favourite.
At the Children’s Library we have stories and fiction to suite ages from 0 to under 18 years old and their families. Our information books are more suited to Reception and Primary School ages, with some exceptions like our Teenage Non-Fiction. Words and Numbers has books for both the parent and the child.
0 to 5 years old, and reception age - found in the Under 5s area
Picture Books and Board Books plus:
- Rhyme Time – books and music CDs which feature nursery rhymes
- Begin to Read and First Chapters – books to help get your child started on their reading journey, and a first look at books which use chapters headings
- When a Book Might Help – books to help with different situations, from a first visit to the dentist to coping with bereavement
6 to 12 yrs old - found in the Junior section
Stories or junior fiction plus:
- Black British Arts and Culture (BBAC) – contains non-fiction about Black Britons and BBAC as well as non-fiction and fiction by Black Britons.
- Shakespeare – plays which have been retold for children. They are not the original version
- Classics Retold – classics which have been retold for children. They are not the original version
- Picture Books for Older Readers – books which have more complex stories and writing than those for under 5s
- Folk and Fairy Tales – books with the original folk or fairy tale, not the Disney version
- Dyslexia friendly reads – books for juniors where the type font and paper colour are dyslexia friendly
- We also have small collections of junior graphic stories; story puzzles; and picture books which have braille and large print.
13 to 16 years old – found in the Teenage section
Fiction for teens plus:
- Teenage Non-fiction – this is made up of focused categories e.g. Living in the Modern World; Identity and Relationships; Mind. Study guides: the focus is on study skills rather than study guides. Please refer to the library catalogue for student texts and study.
- Dyslexia friendly reads – books where the font and background are dyslexia friendly
On the Lower Terrace you’ll also find a Young Adult fiction collection.
Along with our story and fiction collections, we have:
Information books or non-fiction
These are suitable for ages 5 to 12 years, covering a wide range of topics that range from reading for enjoyment to helping you with homework.
Words and Numbers
This small collection supports parents with their child’s literacy and numeracy educational journey from birth to 11 years. It includes guides to starting Infant, Primary and Secondary School with strategies and activities to help your child succeed and fulfil their potential.
Stories and fiction to listen to
If you prefer to hear or listen to a story being read out – then have a look at these collections. Available for all ages, on:
- CD and Playaway Talking Books
These are physical audio books – use either a CD player or even simpler, plug in your headphones to a Playaway. These are free to borrow on a child’s library card.
- E-Library and E audio books
Our electronic service offer includes both audio (to listen to) and downloadable books (to read on tablet).
Find out more about e-library and e-audio books
Not a Harry Potter in sight and nothing to read?
Our best advise is to simply pick up a story or book and have a look inside. If you like what’s there – give it a go. If you don’t, put it back. You can also check the library webpages for reading suggestions, or ask a member of staff.
Remember, it’s ok to go back to reading something easier if you’re feeling tired or just want the comfort of an old favourite story.
