Library services for under fives
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Activities and events for under fives
We run a large programme of events and activities for under-fives, from rhyme time sessions to play events. For details, please visit Library events for under fives
We also have many activity sessions for under-fives available on our YouTube channel
Library resources for under fives
To borrow resources from Barnet Libraries, you will need a library card. If you are not already a member, you can join the library online and become a member straight away.
You can borrow children’s books, audiobooks and DVDs in our opening times or through our Select and Collect service
We have an exciting collection of eBooks and eAudiobooks suitable for young children available for you to borrow.
To support children's reading and life in general, we are developing a series of booklists
Bookstart
Bookstart is a national scheme bringing books and small children together.
Baby Bookstart packs
Every baby born to a family who live in Barnet is entitled to a free Baby Bookstart pack.
Your health visitor or staff at your baby clinic usually have a supply of Bookstart Baby Packs for new parents, so ask next time you visit.
If you live in Barnet, you can also collect a Bookstart Baby Pack from any Barnet Library. Please check our opening hours before leaving home, as these are currently changing on a regular basis.
Our short videos will help you get started with your Bookstart pack:
Don’t forget to join the library when you visit to collect your Bookstart pack. You can then borrow some more books to share with your baby.
Special Bookstart packs are available for children with additional needs
Contact Bookstart@barnet.gov.uk if you have a child who is deaf, has a visual impairment or has disabilities which impact on or delay the development of their fine motor skills.
Nurseries, pre-schools and schools
Our specialist early years team runs FREE termly online story and rhyme events for Nurseries and Preschools. These started during the Coronavirus lockdown and due to popular demand are now a regular feature of our early years offer. Please contact us at Bookstart@ barnet.gov.uk if you would like more information or to join the next event.
Members of the Early Years Team can also visit preschools and nurseries to deliver face to face Story and Rhyme sessions. Charges do apply, but are very competitive compared to other providers of similar activities. Please contact us at Bookstart@ barnet.gov.uk for more information.
Contacts
Early Years and Bookstart Coordinator