I Am Sam. Emergent Reader 1
Am I Lucky. Emergent Reader 34
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: Flyleaf Beginning Readers

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
Flyleaf Readers are designed for students in the first stages of reading. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading.
Dark Tunnels
Dog Sledding
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: High Noon Sound-Out Chapter Books Level 5 & 6

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
High Noon Chapter Books are designed for new readers who are ready to dive into chapter books. These stories are completely “decodable” meaning they use simple words and short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Levels 5 and 6 are for new readers ready to tackle multisyllabic words and longer sentences.
Chase the Wind.
Lost in the Dunes.
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: High Noon Sound-Out Chapter Books Level 3 & 4

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
High Noon Chapter Books are designed for new readers who are ready to dive into chapter books. These stories are completely “decodable” meaning they use simple words and short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Levels 3 & 4 build foundational reading skills that will prepare a reader for more challenging concepts in levels 5 & 6.
Cole and Finn
Get the Vet
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: High Noon Sound-Out Chapter Books for New Readers

  • Emily J.
  • Thursday, May 11
High Noon Chapter Books are designed for new readers who are ready to dive into chapter books. These stories are completely “decodable” meaning they use simple words and short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Levels 1 & 2 build foundational reading skills that will prepare a reader for more challenging concepts in levels 3 & 4.
The Bad Hiss
The Check-up
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: Whole Phonics Level 2 Series

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 10
Whole Phonics Early Level 2 Series are designed for early readers who are ready to tackle more advanced concepts. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Decodable readers series slowly progress into more complex reading concepts moving from simple one-syllable words (fan) to multisyllabic words (fantastic).
Buzz, Buzz
Get Up!
Staff Picks

Decodable Readers: Whole Phonics Level 1 Series

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 10
Whole Phonics Early Level 1 Series are designed for students who know all the consonant and short vowel sounds. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Decodable readers series slowly progress into more complex reading concepts moving from simple one-syllable words (fan) to multisyllabic words (fantastic).
A Cap
The Fab Cab
Staff Picks

First Decodable Readers: Whole Phonics Off We Go Series

  • Emily J.
  • Wednesday, May 10
Whole Phonics Early Readers are designed for students in the first stages of reading. New readers feel empowered because they can sound-out unfamiliar words without guessing and steadily build their reading skills. These books are completely “decodable” meaning that they use simple words and only short vowel sounds as the first stepping stones into reading. Decodable readers series slowly progress into more complex reading concepts moving from simple one-syllable words (fan) to multisyllabic words (fantastic).
Blog
Richland Library Main

Crafting for a Cause: Donations by Sew Divine at Southeast

  • Adele C.
  • Monday, May 08
Crafting can be a fulfilling and enjoyable pastime, but what if you could turn your hobby into something even more meaningful? That's exactly what the Southeast branch of Sew Divine has been doing for years, and they have made an incredible impact on their community through their donations.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Kids in Print 2023

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, April 26
Congratulations to the illustrators and writers featured in this year's edition of Kids in Print!
Troublemakers in Trousers
Black Girls Unbossed
Staff Picks

Trailblazers: Inspirational Women Throughout History

  • Taelor J.
  • Wednesday, March 01
“Women are leaders everywhere you look—from the CEO who runs a Fortune 500 company to the housewife who raises her children and heads her household. Our country was built by strong women, and we will continue to break down walls and defy stereotypes.” —Nancy Pelosi This booklist features books that share the stories of amazing women; their strength and courage to overcome barriers and bravery that helped pave the way for future generations of females.
Gator, Gator, Gator!
The Reptiles of South Carolina
Staff Picks

What's New at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

  • Taelor J.
  • Tuesday, February 14
What was once Riverbanks Zoo & Garden's Aquarium Reptile Complex has now gotten a new look and a new name! The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center will be opening March 2, 2023.
Blog
Richland Library Southeast

Paper Quilling Craft

  • Brianna K.
  • Monday, February 06
Learn the art of Paper Quilling and create something for someone you care about.
Stars of the Night
The Story of Bodri
Staff Picks

International Holocaust Remembrance Day for Young Readers

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, January 26
“There will be times when you'll feel lonely and homesick. Let the stars of the night and the sun of the day be the messenger of our thoughts and love.”― Stars of the Night: The Courageous Children of the Czech Kindertransport by Caren Stelson | illustrated by Selina Alko
Blog
Richland Library Main

What's your resolution?

  • Adele C.
  • Saturday, December 31
No matter what your resolutions are for the new year, we hope that the library can play a part in helping you achieve your goals.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Top Checkouts of 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, December 28
2022 was chock-full of throwback picks from old favorites, a swath of romance and thrillers, and some pretty solid streaming queues for all ages. Here's a look at the top 10 books, movies, and songs by age group and format.
Blog
Richland Library Edgewood

Dinner Table Talks: Indigo Dreaming

  • Taelor J.
    Heather M.
  • Wednesday, December 21
Dinner Table Talks create the opportunity for families to have important conversations centered around books. These discussions will build our capacity for talking about race and define our roles in fighting against both every day and systemic racism.
The People Remember
Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls
Staff Picks

2022 Holiday Gifts for Early Elementary

  • Richland Library
  • Sunday, December 04
Did you know that reading every day from an early age helps expand your child’s attention span? The early elementary ages are a great time to develop those skills by reading both novels and picture books aloud to your child. Whether reading independently or together, being surrounded by books will nurture their reading and will help them go from beginning to read to reading fluently.
Music is a Rainbow
An Ordinary Day
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Death, Loss & Grief

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, November 07
"Son, life is full of holes. You may want to close them up to keep out the storm. But make sure to leave room for that rainbow to find you." --Music is a Rainbow by Bryan Collier
Blog
Richland Library Sandhills

Cyanotype: Create with Light and Shadow

  • Sarah W.
  • Friday, November 04
Recognizable by their monochromatic, intense blue backgrounds, cyanotype is an early photographic process that provides an accessible introduction to early photography.
Mama Loves Me from Away
A Kind of Thief
Staff Picks

Books for Children with Incarcerated Parents

  • Jessica B.
  • Monday, October 10
According to PEW research, it is estimated that about 1.7 million children have at least one parent in jail or prison in the United States. Here is a list of books to help start that conversation with young people who are living through this experience.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Disability Visibility in Children's Literature

  • Caitlin B.
  • Monday, September 12
To me, the greatest beauty of children's literature is that books help us empathize with those who are different from us or who have different lived experiences than our own.
Hear My Voice
Sing, Don't Cry
Staff Picks

Immigration and Refugee Stories: Children's Novels and Nonfiction

  • Caitlin B.
  • Tuesday, August 16
Refugee and immigrant stories are American stories. Richland Library has a multitude of beautiful novels and nonfiction books that tell a variety of stories of children and families coming to America in search of a better life. You can place books on hold online or call us in the Children's Room at (803) 929-3434 and we will happily place holds for you to pick up in the CR or at any branch location.
Marwan's Journey
A Thousand White Butterflies
Staff Picks

Immigration and Refugee Stories: Picture Books

  • Caitlin B.
  • Tuesday, August 16
Refugee and immigrant stories are American stories. Richland Library has a multitude of beautiful picture books that tell a variety of stories of children and families coming to America in search of a better life. You can place books on hold online or call us in the Children's Room at (803) 929-3434 and we will happily place holds for you to pick up in the CR or at any branch location.
Marwan's Journey
A Thousand White Butterflies
Staff Picks

Immigration and Refugee Stories: Picture Books

  • Caitlin B.
  • Tuesday, August 16
Refugee and immigrant stories are American stories. Richland Library has a multitude of beautiful picture books that tell a variety of stories of children and families coming to America in search of a better life. You can place books on hold online or call us in the Children's Room at (803) 929-3434 and we will happily place holds for you to pick up in the CR or at any branch location.
Birds
Bateman's Backyard Birds
Staff Picks

Great Bird Books for Kids

  • Jenny D.
  • Saturday, August 13
Tweet! Tweet! Get outside and learn about the birds you see every day and many more. Explore the world of birds and become an expert with this selection of books for kids of all ages.
Evelyn Del Rey is Moving Away
Evelyn Del Rey Se Muda
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 5, 6, 7 | 2021

  • Richland Library
  • Sunday, July 17
"Evelyn Del Rey is my mejor amiga, my número uno best friend. 'Come play, Daniela,' she says, just like she always does. Just like today is any other day." --Evelyn Del Rey is Moving Away by Meg Medina
Dragons in a Bag
Going Down Home with Daddy.
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 7, 8, 9 | 2021

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, July 14
Mama smiles sweetly and places her palm against the door. She speaks slowly and politely. “It’s just us, Ma. I called this morning and told you we were coming. Remember?” The woman behind the door barks at Mama, “Course I remember. You called and asked if you could leave the boy with me and I said NO!”--Dragons in a Bag by Zetta Elliott
Blog
Richland Library North Main

Dinner Table Talks: How to Find What You're Not Looking For

  • Jocelyn T.
    Heather M.
    Taelor J.
  • Sunday, November 12
Dinner Table Talks create the opportunity for families to have important conversations centered around books. These discussions will build our capacity for talking about race and define our roles in fighting against both every day and systemic racism.
Black is a Rainbow Color
If You Come to Earth /.
Staff Picks

South Carolina Picture Book Award Nominees 2022-2023

  • Heather M.
  • Sunday, June 19
The South Carolina Picture Book Award is granted annually by the South Carolina Association of School Librarians (SCASL). The nominees represent quality contemporary literature for 4K, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders, selected by students, parents, teachers, and librarians. Below are the 2022-2023 nominees in print, audio, and ebook formats.
Isaiah Dunn is My Hero
Unspeakable
Staff Picks

South Carolina Children's Book Award Nominees 2022-2023

  • Heather M.
  • Sunday, June 19
The South Carolina Children's Book Award is granted annually by the South Carolina Association of School Librarians (SCASL). The nominees represent quality contemporary literature for 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th graders, selected by students, parents, teachers, and librarians. Below are the 2022-2023 nominees in print, audio, and ebook formats.
The Donkey and the Rock
Monkey King Wreaks Havoc in Heaven
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Asian Folklore Titles for Youth

  • Jocelyn T.
  • Friday, June 10
Read and celebrate the amazing Asian folklore stories about grand heroes, exciting adventures, and fantastical places below! Looking for even more good books? Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084. Find more resources on race, equity, and inclusion, here.
Ghosts, Toast, and Other Hazards
Flowerheart
Staff Picks

Youth Titles to Read for Mental Health Awareness Month

  • Ashley S.
  • Thursday, May 12
Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness month has been celebrated in the United States each May. Every single year millions of adults, teens, and children face the reality of living with a mental health condition. Books are a great place to start to better understand and build empathy towards those with these lived experiences. Check out the list below for youth titles that have released in the past two years that bring awareness to mental health conditions like OCD, anxiety, depression, and more.
Too Small Tola
Too Small Tola
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 7, 8, 9 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"Tola is the youngest in her family. And the smallest. And everybody calls her Too Small Tola, which makes her feel too-too small." --Too Small Tola by Atinuke
When Lola Visits
I Talk Like a River
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 5, 6, 7 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"Summer feels like the last golden hour of the day drifting into an indigo night." --When Lola Visits by Michelle Sterling
Eyes That Speak to the Stars
Bright Star (read Along)
Staff Picks

Great Books for Ages 3, 4, 5 | 2022

  • Richland Library
  • Wednesday, May 11
"My eyes gaze into space and glimpse trails of light..." --Eyes That Speak to the Stars by Joanna Ho Preschoolers are listening to longer books and asking LOTS of questions. They are growing their independence along with their attention spans. Bring your book lover to Richland Library and pick up one of these terrific titles today.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Kids in Print 2022

  • Heather M.
  • Saturday, May 07
Congratulations to the illustrators and writers featured in this year's edition of Kids in Print 2022!
The One Day House
No Voice Too Small
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Connecting with Our Community

  • Heather M.
  • Wednesday, May 04
"One day," said Wilson. "I will fix the roof on Gigi's house to keep out the wind and snow."--The One Day House by Julia Durango Whether it's helping a neighbor, volunteering or bringing people together to fix a problem too big for any one person, these stories of community let us know that we have the ability to make a difference in the lives of the people around us.
Blog
Richland Library Main

An Amazing Children's Author: Jane Yolen

  • Caitlin B.
  • Thursday, May 05
Jane Yolen has been called the Hans Christian Andersen of America and the Aesop of the twentieth century due to her command of folklore, fantasy, and myth. Her storytelling reaches a vast audience, from the youngest board book reader to the young adult.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Finding the Right Book for Your Child

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, May 26
Choosing books for your child is a bit like a match-making process. Not all children will love the same books. To help you find the right match, we’ve curated some recommendations to try on and see what fits.
No More Plastic
Reuse This Book!
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Taking Care of Mother Earth

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, April 18
"She took a deep breath, let it out slowly, and decided to make a change."--No More Plastic | Alma Fullerton Discover how pollution and litter damage the air, land and seas and what you can do each day to take care of our planet. Earth day is every day when you read one of these books. Find more great stories when you Read All About It: This Land is Our Land.
Blog
Richland Library Main

That's Gross!

  • Caitlin B.
  • Monday, April 18
Does your kid love reading about, talking about, asking questions about "gross" things like poop, mud, and slime? You've come to the right place.
Southwest Sunrise
Wonder Walkers
Staff Picks

Read All About It: This Land is Our Land

  • Heather M.
  • Friday, April 15
"This land was made for you and me."--This Land is Your Land | Woody Guthrie Whether it's camping with family or finding tiny, perfect things right in your own neighborhood, these stories will remind you of the wonder and beauty that's all around us. Earth day is every day when you read one of these wonderful picture books. Find more great stories when you Read All About It: Taking Care of Mother Earth.
Jabari Jumps
Violet Shrink
Staff Picks

StoryWalk®: Jabari Jumps Read-Alikes

  • Richland Library
  • Thursday, April 14
Visit Richland Library's Jabari Jumps StoryWalk® at Caughman Road Park or pick up the book from your neighborhood library and find your courage to try something new. Next, check out some of these good books to continue the stories at home! Looking for even more good books? Check out our personalized recommendations or call us at 803-799-9084.
Blog
Richland Library Main

Dinner Table Talks: Missing Daddy and Dad Bakes

  • Heather M.
    Jocelyn T.
    Taelor J.
  • Tuesday, June 06
Dinner Table Talks create the opportunity for families to have important conversations centered around books. These discussions will build our capacity for talking about race and define our roles in fighting against both every day and systemic racism.
Soul Food Sunday
Food
Staff Picks

Read All About It: Tasty Treats

  • Heather M.
  • Monday, April 04
Check out these tasty treats that look good enough to eat--I mean, read. Whether it's a delicious thick red stew shared with neighbors, a food truck rodeo or applesauce in your hair, these books offer a veritable buffet of cuisines and experiences to share together. (Some of these books even offer recipes so you can make food with your friends and family!)
Anansi Does the Impossible!
Staff Picks

A Year of Black History

  • Helene F.
  • Thursday, February 10
A Year of Black History Continues Folktales, comics and history ... here we are! Also, Hoopla is allowing 15 checkouts for the month of February, as well as bonus borrows. Hoopla offers many comic book/graphic novels to choose from! Please, enter your email address and password associated with Hoopla.
I Am Brown
The Electric Slide and Kai
Staff Picks

#OwnVoices: The Black Joy in Picture Books

  • Taelor J.
  • Wednesday, February 09
"Black children lose teeth, learn to walk and talk, start Kindergarten, and tussle with siblings just as all children do, so books portraying them in these and all scenarios is not just appropriate, it should be the norm." - Kelly J. Baptist, author Below are Joyful books that reflect the everyday happenings in the lives of young black children.
Black Boy Joy
Rebound
Staff Picks

#OwnVoices: The Black Joy in Middle Grade Books

  • Taelor J.
  • Wednesday, February 09
The experiences of young black children is not all rooted in trauma. No child wants to constantly read about oppression, hardships and struggles. There is Joy in being black and it is important for children to not just seem themselves in books but see themselves in a positive light. The books below are simply about Black kids just living!
Black Boy Joy
Recognize!
Staff Picks

CSMCL's Best Multicultural Children's Novels and Nonfiction of 2021

  • Caitlin B.
  • Tuesday, February 01
The following novels and nonfiction books were all named in the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children's Literature's Best Multicultural Children's Books of 2021. Want to learn more about diverse books? Check out this blog post. Want more books? Ask your librarian for their recommendations or call the Children's Room at Richland Library Main (803.929.3434). We can send books to your closest Richland Library location!
We Shall Overcome
Soul Food Sunday
Staff Picks

CSMCL's Best Multicultural Picture Books of 2021

  • Caitlin B.
  • Tuesday, February 01
The following picture books were all named in the Center for the Study of Multicultural Children's Literature's Best Multicultural Children's Books of 2021. Want to learn more about diverse books? Check out this blog post. Want more books? Ask your librarian for their recommendations or call the Children's Room at Richland Library Main (803.929.3434). We can send books to your closest Richland Library location!