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Kids & Tweens

As always, the Public is invited to attend all Library Commission Meetings and Library events. The Library will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities upon adequate notice. If you need assistance, please call the Bennett Civic Center Library at 734-466-2491 or email [email protected].

upcoming programs

Highlights

discover, create, and grow in the Kids & Tweens Zone

The Kids & Tweens Department is your place to explore amazing books, spark creativity, and build lifelong learning skills. From storytimes and STEAM activities to book clubs and crafts, there’s something here for every young listener, emerging reader, and curious mind. We’re also here to support grown-ups along the way—with helpful ideas for choosing books, encouraging early literacy, and understanding the value of creative play.

what we offer

• 📚 Books for all ages — picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, and more

• 🎨 Hands-on programs — crafts, games, and creative challenges

• 🤝 Social meetups — tween book clubs and themed events

• 🔍 Learning help — homework support

• 🌱 Family-friendly guidance — tips and inspiration for building reading habits and learning through play

• ☀️ Summer Reading Program — magicians, music, outdoor programming, and opportunities to earn FREE books!

Join us for weekly activities, special events, and reading fun customized just for kids and tweens. Check our calendar for upcoming programs.

Reading Challenges

Register for all of these programs (plus some for grownups) at livonialibrary.beanstack.org. You can also register at the Children’s Reference Desk.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

For any child from birth until they enter kindergarten.
You are invited to participate in this FREE program which encourages parents to read 1,000 books with their children before they start kindergarten. It’s easy to participate. Mark off the books you have read on your reading log. When you reach 100, show us your log to receive your prize and your new reading log. As children reach their milestones, their names will be displayed in the Livonia Public Libraries on our walls of fame. Sign up on Beanstack today! Click here for staff recommended books.

Kindergarten Challenge

This challenge may be completed the June before kindergarten through the end of their kindergarten year.
Continue (or begin) your child’s reading journey by reading 100 books selected for you by the Livonia Public Library’s Children’s Librarians. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.

50 in First Challenge

This challenge may be completed the June before first grade through the end of the school year.
Your child may be beginning to read on their own. Using the 25 pre-selected books and 25 of your child’s choice, complete the 50 in First Challenge by having your child read to you and/or read the books together. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.

Second Grade Storytellers

This challenge may be completed the June before second grade through the end of the school year.
One of the best ways for a child to increase their reading comprehension is to read and book and then tell you what happens. During second grade, you and your child can select 25 books to read together and then have your child tell you the story in their own words. Log the books in Beanstack or on the paper log.

Third Grade – True 25

This challenge may be completed the June before third grade through the end of the school year.
Third graders can explore the world of nonfiction. Reading three books in six different categories (biography, social sciences, sciences, technology, poetry, and history/geography) plus seven books in whatever category they like, your child can complete the True 25 challenge. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.

Fourth Grade – Books Outside the Box

This challenge may be completed the June before fourth grade through the end of the school year.
It is important for people to read about cultures outside of their own, and this challenge encourages fourth grade students to read five diverse books. These are books that take place in different countries, have characters of a different race or ethnicity, and/or characters with disabilities, just to name a few examples. Simply read a book and mark it off in Beanstack or on the paper log.

Tween Reading Challenge

For Tween readers in grades 5-7. This challenge runs January – December and may be joined at any time.
Complete monthly and bonus challenges for a chance to win a fabulous prize. Sign up on Beanstack today!

Register for all of these Reading Challenges (plus some for grownups) at livonialibrary.beanstack.org. You can also register at the Children’s Reference Desk.

Summer Reading Program

June 1-July 31, 2026

All kids and tweens entering 7th grade or younger
Registration opens June 1, 2026. More info coming soon!

More to Explore

Scavenger Hunts

All ages welcome
New every month! Can you find all of the special characters hidden across the children’s room at the Bennett Civic Center Library? Find all six of them, tell a librarian, and get a special prize to take home!

Nature Nook with Braille-Enhanced Storywalk®

All ages welcome
Enjoy some fresh air and a story! Located behind the Bennett Civic Center Library, the Nature Nook was designed and completed by Eagle Scout Candidate Matthew Sas, and the Storywalk® was funded by the Livonia AM Rotary. Seedlings Braille Books for Children provided the Braille enhancement. Stories are available from approximately April through October.

Homeschooling Resources

All ages welcome
Looking for ideas to keep kids reading, thinking, and learning? Try some of these free Homeschooling Resourcesincluding virtual tours, educational resources, and kid-friendly livestreams.

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