Story times & library events for kids in New Castle County
A library story time is the original free outing — a song, a book, and somewhere for the little ones to wiggle. Nearly every NCC branch runs them, and this list pulls the upcoming ones straight from our calendar, soonest first. Most are weekly and free; check each for the age it targets.
PAWS for People: READ to a Dog
Wed, Jul 22 · Appoquinimink Library
Kids can practice reading aloud in a low-pressure environment with a gentle therapy dog.
PAWS Read to the Dogs
Wed, Jul 22 · Brandywine Hundred Library
Reading to a calm, non-judgmental animal can help children build confidence and improve their literacy skills in a relaxed setting.
Storytime
Thu, Jul 23 · Brandywine Zoo
The outdoor setting in the Wildlife Amphitheater offers a pleasant environment for listening to stories.
Storytime: Punky Aloha
Thu, Jul 23 · Please Touch Museum
This storytime often provides a calm, engaging activity that is well-suited for young children's attention spans.
Story Time in Enchanted Woods
Thu, Jul 23 · Winterthur Museum
Families might appreciate the opportunity for children to engage with nature-themed stories and participate in special anniversary activities if attending on the first Thursday of the month.
PAWS for People: READ
Thu, Jul 23 · Claymont Library
This is a fantastic, low-pressure way for kids to build reading confidence and enjoy a unique interaction with a furry friend.
Storytime with Ms. Karen
Fri, Jul 24 · Appoquinimink Library
This storytime welcomes children across a broad age range, making it suitable for families with multiple young children.
Shake, Rattle and Read!
Fri, Jul 24 · Hockessin Library
The program incorporates music and movement, which can help young children engage with stories in an active way.
Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time with Ms Debbie
Fri, Jul 24 · Elsmere Public Library
It's a fantastic way to introduce your little ones to the joy of reading and movement in a welcoming, structured environment.
W.E.L.L.S. Little Amigos Storytime with LanguageU
Sat, Jul 25 · Brandywine Hundred Library
This program offers an opportunity for young children to be introduced to a new language in a playful setting.
Storybook Saturday with Terry Colonna - Fish Tales
Sat, Jul 25 · Kirkwood Library
This event offers both engaging storytelling and a hands-on craft, which can help hold the attention of younger children.
Learning Lab with Wilmington Friends School
Sat, Jul 25 · Woodlawn Library
This program offers a mix of activities that can keep young children engaged and provide opportunities for interaction with other families.
KinderSkills Story Time
Mon, Jul 27 · Brandywine Hundred Library
This program offers a structured environment for young children to develop early literacy skills through engaging activities.
Jitterbugs at Claymont Library
Mon, Jul 27 · Claymont Library
The limited class size and admission method may help ensure a more focused and manageable experience for young children.
Book Babies
Mon, Jul 27 · Bear Library
This event offers a structured, engaging way to introduce very young children to books and music in a social setting, supporting early development.
Pajama Storytime
Mon, Jul 27 · Kirkwood Library
This evening storytime offers a cozy way to wind down the day with stories and songs, making it a fun alternative to a regular bedtime routine.
Summer Storytime (All Ages)
Tue, Jul 28 · Jenkins Arboretum
The outdoor setting in the Explorer Garden provides a pleasant environment for listening to stories.
Children's Storytime
Tue, Jul 28 · Delaware City Public Library
It's a wonderful, free opportunity to introduce your child to the joy of books, practice listening skills, and let them socialize with peers in a welcoming library setting.
Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time
Tue, Jul 28 · Hockessin Library
It's a fantastic, free way to boost your child's early literacy skills, encourage social interaction, and enjoy a fun, structured activity outside the house.
Toddler Tales
Tue, Jul 28 · Brandywine Hundred Library
This program focuses on early literacy skills through interactive elements like stories, songs, and rhymes.
See everything on the full calendar →
Questions parents ask
Where can I find a story time near me?
Nearly every New Castle County library branch runs free story times for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. This list pulls the next upcoming ones from our calendar — most are weekly and free.
What ages are library story times for?
Most branches split by age — baby/lap-sit, toddler, and preschool story times — so there's usually one that fits. Check the event for the age it targets and whether it needs registration.
Get the good ones before they fill up
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More guides
Checked against each place’s current info.
Event dates come straight from our live calendar and refresh automatically. Last reviewed June 15, 2026. Confirm anything dated on the source before you go.