How to Get FREE Books for Kids: No Strings Attached!

"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." ~ Dr. Seuss

As parents, educators, and caregivers, we understand the importance of nurturing a child's love for reading. Books open up new worlds, stimulate imagination, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning. But let's face it – the cost of building a diverse library for kids can add up quickly. The good news is that there are numerous ways to access free books for kids, without any hidden agendas. In this article, we'll explore these exciting avenues that let young readers embark on literary adventures, all without breaking the bank.

1. Public Libraries: Your Treasure Trove of Free Books

Public libraries are the unsung heroes of free book access. With shelves upon shelves of children's literature, libraries are an endless resource for discovering new stories, characters, and worlds. Many libraries also organize story hours, reading clubs, and interactive sessions that make reading even more engaging for kids. From picture books to young adult novels, libraries have it all. These programs are FREE, so just some added fun for families when they are members. Oh, and did you know you can borrow more than just books? You can get movies too and there are even FREE family movie nights!

2. Little Free Libraries: Sharing Stories in Your Community

Have you noticed those adorable little book houses in your neighborhood? These are Little Free Libraries, community-driven initiatives that promote the joy of reading. These miniature libraries are often located in public spaces and neighborhoods, where you can take a book to read and leave another for someone else. It's a beautiful way to foster a sense of sharing and a love for reading.

To find free childrens’ books near you, use the little library locator or download The Little Free Library’s app. I think that’s what surprises me and yet warms my heart the most – I’ve found 31 of them just in my town. I had no idea there were that many! And did you know you can start one too?! You’ll find that information on their website as well. This is a REALLY cool program!

→ Facebook Marketplace

You can find anything on Facebook, right? Well, yes you can! Parents purge and kids outgrow books, so it is very common to find children’s books by the box load up for grabs. You might get lucky and find a parent that just wants their space back and list them for FREE, or you’ll find them for a fraction of the cost and be able to build your child’s library up fast! Try your luck and take a peek! (If your child is into Pete the Cat, Junie B. Jones, Captain Underpants, and similar books, I’ve been fortunate enough to grab huge collections of these favorites in one scoop!)

Reading has so many benefits – it reduces stress and helps you relax, it improves your concentration and memory, it allows for vocabulary expansion and strengthens your writing abilities, it enhances your knowledge, and increases your imagination and creativity. It just makes sense to start reading to your child and continue to encourage a lifelong relationship with books once they can read on their own! Hopefully, you’ve just discovered FREE and affordable ways to help you to be able to do that!

3. Online Resources: Digital Treasures for Young Readers

The digital age has brought with it a plethora of online resources that offer free books for kids. Websites like Project Gutenberg, International Children's Digital Library, and Storyline Online provide access to a wide range of classic and contemporary stories. Many libraries also offer digital memberships, allowing kids to borrow eBooks and audiobooks from the comfort of their homes.

→ Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library TOPS my list because it is such an AMAZING program placing books in children’s hands! How it works is that you will sign your child up as a newborn and then each month through the age of 5, they will receive a book for FREE! Yes, FREE! These are age-appropriate books that are mailed directly to your home at zero cost to you! Dolly’s father couldn’t read or write, and she felt it kept him from fulfilling his dreams. This is why she wanted to create a program that empowered kids to embrace possibilities.

Dolly deeply believes that the seeds of dreams are often found in books and that’s how her program began! Pretty awesome, right? And it’s the real deal! No catch! They’ve donated over 200 million books to date. That’s quite an impact! So get your child signed up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and then make sure that you go tell all your friends to sign up their kids too! (Do note, that it may not be available in all areas, but they are constantly expanding, so even if you don’t see it for your area now, you’ll want to keep checking back!)

→ Free Kids Magazines

No, it’s not a book, but let’s be real, encouraging kids to read is what we’re all after! Magazines are perfect for that, and with some FREE ones available, we’re not complaining! Besides, they are going to LOVE getting their own mail too!

The LEGO Life Magazine combines reading and their favorite toys as the topic! There are comics, creations, stories and more all rolled into an issue. So if your child is between the ages of 5 and 9 you can get them a FREE subscription to the LEGO Life Magazine. The magazine is delivered directly to your home five times a year. Even shipping is free!

Sign your kids up to get the Netflix Family Magazine and enjoy games, stories, & activities featuring all their favorite Netflix characters. It’s an actual, physical magazine that kids of all ages and stages can hold in their hands and enjoy.

If you have an older child who likes to learn and is curious about medicine and science, you’ll want to check out the National Institute of General Medical Sciences Pathway Magazine. It’s designed for grades 6 through 12. You can even request past issues.

→ Free Digital and Audio Books

It’s true what they say, it’s a digital world! But that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. It puts things like eBooks right in the palm of our hands in a snap! And with kids itching to get their hands on your phone or to spend time on the tablet, these are a nice option!

Amazon has a nice selection of FREE Kids Kindle eBooks! What’s nice is that they give guidance as to what age group the book is intended for. And the stories are instantly available too! Don’t have a Kindle? No worries! Just download their FREE Kindle Reading App and you’ll be able to read it from the devices you do have!

Barnes & Noble has a HUGE selection of FREE eBooks for kids – over 5,000 of them! I spotted a lot of classics as well as some really fun ones! You will need to download their Nook App to your device, but that’s as easy as going to your app store and grabbing it! (It’s FREE to download!)

OpenLibrary offers free online books for kids. It features reading levels from preschool to 12th grade. (There are books for you as well if you’re interested!) It took less than a minute to sign-up for a FREE account and “borrow” a book! What I like about this one, is that if the book is a part of a series, you can see the next books within the sequence and put them on your waitlist. Series books are really big with the kids, so they’ll just get to keep on enjoying their favorites!

FreeKidsBooks.org allows you to read books online or download to your device as a PDF. You can sort the books by age or by subject. If you can print, you’ll appreciate some of the workbooks they have – your little one can practice their cutting skills, do mazes, and even make their own books!

Storyline Online is also a very cool website worth checking out! It streams videos featuring celebrated actors reading children’s books alongside creatively produced illustrations. Readers include Oprah Winfrey, Chris Pine, Rosario Dawson, Viola Davis, Terry Crews, Connie Britton, John Lithgow, Jennifer Garner, Betty White and dozens more. This is a very cool option for kids that can’t quite read just yet.

Read.gov is your place for the classics! The Library of Congress offers these FREE online books. What’s fascinating about them is that the scans capture the vintage charm, including original fonts and illustrations. It’s really neat to see!

4. Reading Challenges and Contests: A Fun Path to Free Books

Participating in reading challenges and contests can be a rewarding way for kids to earn free books. Many organizations and publishers run reading programs where children can read a certain number of books and receive a free book as a reward. Not only does this motivate kids to read, but it also adds an element of excitement to their reading journey.

→ Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program

Barnes & Noble hosts one of my favorite summer reading programs! How it works is that kids in first through sixth grade simply read a designated number of books (It’s 8 books this year, but that number has changed over the years.), then they write about their favorite part in their Reading Journal. (It’s not a long entry – just a sentence or two.) They can then bring that completed Reading Journal to their local Barnes & Noble bookstore to choose a FREE book! (The books they can choose from are listed on the Reading Journal.)

The program runs July 1st through August 31st each summer. It’s also a great way to keep kids reading while school is out for the summer.

5. Diverse Book Swaps: Sharing Stories and Cultures

Book swaps are fantastic opportunities for kids to exchange books they've already read for new ones. Organize book swap events within your community, school, or group of friends. This not only introduces kids to new stories but also encourages conversations about their favorite books and authors.

BookCrossing, PaperBack Swap, and Book Mooch are some of the popular exchange websites that you’ll want to check out.

6. Free Book Days and Events: Discovering Hidden Gems

Keep an eye out for free book days and events in your area. Local bookstores, libraries, and literacy organizations often host events where kids can choose a free book to take home. These events are not only a chance to score a new book but also an opportunity to connect with fellow book enthusiasts.

7. Reach Out to Authors and Publishers: Building Connections

Many authors and publishers offer free eBooks or downloadable resources on their websites. Some authors also provide free digital copies in exchange for honest reviews. Don't hesitate to reach out and inquire – you might discover some hidden literary gems.

8. School Initiatives and Programs: Expanding Reading Horizons

Schools often have initiatives and programs that promote reading. Keep an eye out for book fairs, reading challenges, and literacy events organized by schools. These can be excellent opportunities for kids to acquire free books while actively participating in the school community.

9. Bookstore Programs and Rewards: Perks of Loyalty

Some bookstores have loyalty programs that offer rewards for regular customers. These rewards might include free books, discounts, or exclusive access to events. Signing up for such programs can be a great way to build your child's book collection.

10. Start a Book Club: Sharing Stories with Friends

Starting a kids' book club with friends or classmates is not only a fun social activity but also a way to share books and experiences. Each member can take turns picking a book to read, ensuring a diverse range of reading materials.

→ The Beans & Sparks Club

For just $1 for shipping, you can get one free book for your kids with the character designed with your child's name and features. When you subscribe, you're prompted to enter your child's name, gender, hairstyle, eye color, and other features. Then, your first personalized book is sent to you for just $1. For more personalized books, parents can sign up for the Beans & Sparks Club for $27.98 per month.

Free Books to Grab Now!

The fun continues! Here are some book titles you can grab for free right now. Don't wait though - these offers won't last long!

Sesame Street Fire Safety Color and Learn Activity Book - Grab it here
Peta Kids Comic Books - Grab them here
A free monthly kids' book from Florida's New Worlds Reading Program - Enroll here
Free educational comic books from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York - Learn more
Free monthly braille book from the Braille Books Program - Sign up here
Redeem your points from the My Readers Rewards Club for free books and journals - Sign up here
Free Childrens' board books in both English in Spanish from the CDC - Grab them here

In Conclusion: Ignite the Love for Reading

Access to free books for kids is more attainable than ever before. From traditional libraries to online platforms and community initiatives, there are endless opportunities to spark a love for reading in young minds. Remember, the journey of reading is not just about acquiring books – it's about exploring new worlds, fostering creativity, and instilling a lifelong passion for learning. So, dive into these free book avenues and watch your child's literary adventures unfold!

BONUS: Check out these other free book offers currently available while you are here and save some money!

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