Ready to Read

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Digital Resources

You’ll need an Alameda Free Library card to access these free resources.

Library Catalog

Search our collection, place holds, and access your library account here.
Hoopla Kids Mode
Explore amazing ebooks and streaming media by browsing in Hoopla Kids Mode. No holds, no waiting! Hoopla Kids Mode is a multi-format digital media experience designed especially for kids (up to age 12). All content — movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, eBooks, and comics — has been curated by Hoopla and brought together in this one family-friendly place. Borrow up to 7 items per month.
Libby Kids
Libby provides library patrons remote access to a large collection of premium audiobooks, e-books, magazines, and music from their website. If you only want Libby to show titles intended for children, choose the Libby For Kids preset in the Content Controls menu. This preset shows only juvenile and young adult titles when you browse and search.

LOTE4Kids
Thousands of picture books read aloud in over 115 languages, including Spanish, ASL, Arabic, Mandarin, and Vietnamese. Free with your library card. Read at home, or take it with you. App is available on iOS and Android.

Online Resources

Great Books by Grade Level
Book lists created by Alameda Free Library staff for cultural heritage, hot topics, and fun reading grouped by reading level.

A Book and a Hug (website)
Book recommendations for all reading levels based on your reader type.
No Flying No Tights (website)
A page devoted to graphic novel reviews for librarians and their patrons. Be sure to filter for the age range you’re looking for.
Palace Project (mobile device app)
The Palace Project was developed by and for libraries. Download the Palace Project app and get access to thousands of free e-books. Exclusively available via app.
Teaching Books Reader’s Advisory (website)
Discover books that match your interest. Then, learn more about the book with author interviews, audiobook performances, discussion questions, and more.

Reading Challenges

Beanstack
We use Beanstack to manage our reading challenges. Through Beanstack you’ll be able to participate in challenges, earn incentives, and discover great books. It’s free to sign up and your information will remain confidential. Some of the reading challenges you’ll find on Beanstack include:

  • Summer Reading: The Summer Reading Challenge is FREE for children, teens, and adults and runs from June 1st to July 31st. Readers earn prizes for the amount of time spent reading during the two-month period! All three library locations have expanded programming schedules, so be sure to check our online calendar for dates and times. Stop by any Alameda Free Library branch to sign up, or register for the challenge between June 1st and July 31st!
  • 1000 Books Before Kindergarten: This free program encourages you to read 1000 books with your child before they enter school. Every child enrolled receives a tote bag, a folder for recording the titles listened to, and information on ways to help children gain the skills needed to be ready to learn when school starts.
  • Digital Literacy (for grades K-5 and grades 6-adult): Participants will enjoy earning digital badges as they learn digital citizenship; online safety;
    typing skills; how to use; identify, and care for technology; and more, and earn a digital certificate upon completion.
  • Virtual Field Trips: Visit the animals, landmarks, local attractions, and hidden gems of our world from the comfort of home. Earn digital badges - like passport stamps - as you complete activities and enjoy this fun way to travel the world with the help of your local library and your library card.
  • Seasonal and Special Occasion Challenges: Visit Beanstack throughout the year to find limited seasonal challenges, too!
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