There are so many options for exposing your kids to good books in Portland. Of course, there are storytimes at your local library – you can go every day of the week if you like! But many local bookstores, coffee shops, and community centers offer storytimes too. Below is our comprehensive compilation of all things story – enjoy!
Multnomah County Library storytimes. You can find a storytime at a local library nearly every day of the week. The traditional storytime includes stories, bubbles, songs and some play time. These are separated out roughly by age – but feel free to go to whichever one works for you and your family. In addition, the library has special Black storytime, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese and Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin) storytimes, and a preschool sensory storytime. If you time it right, you can even head over for a pajama storytime. Check the library’s website for the right storytime for you.
Different counties and surrounding cities have their own library storytimes: Washington County, Clackamas County (Spanish version), and Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries.
Friends of Tryon Creek. Their free Story & Stroll program integrates nature exploration, art, literature, movement, and outdoor play. It is geared toward families with young children (preferably ages 2-6) but all are welcome. They are often held on Thursday and Fridays; check their calendar for times and dates. Space is limited, register in the Nature Center 15 minutes before the program starts.
Olive Rootbeer and Dingo are two clowns who sing music, tell stories and make balloon creations. These two are a Portland institution, and for great reason. They have many weekly shows around town and pop up at new sites all the time. There’s a $5 suggested donation to support the artists.
Green Bean Books. Listen to carefully selected books at Green Bean Books, the lovely Portland bookstore on NE Alberta. There is a storytime practically every day of the week. Be sure to check their website for other weekly special storytimes, crafts and book releases.
Maggie Mae’s Kids Bookshop. Head to Maggie Mae’s in downtown Gresham for toddler storytime on Wednesdays at 10:30 am or family storytime on Saturdays at 10:30 am. Check their website for other storytimes, kids’ activities and author readings.
Powells Books. What City of Books would be complete without a storytime? Powell’s Books (downtown) has theirs every Saturday at 11 am. Check the events calendar for storytimes and events at the Cedar Hills Crossing location, too.
A Children’s Place Bookstore, on NE Fremont and 48th, hosts occasional storytimes. Keep up to date on their Facebook page.
Portland Early Learning Project offers free, interactive Spanish story and play times at libraries, cafes, and stores around the Portland area. Check their website for one near you.
Scuola Italiana di Portland: Italian School of Portland hosts a free Italian language playgroup on Fridays in NW Portland. It’s designed to engage children ages newborn–4 years old and a parent or caregiver with simple language immersion through games, music, crafts, free play and other activities.
Venvino Art Studios hosts a free storytime and craft on Tuesday mornings in Happy Valley. There’s also a kids area with sensory table, toys and books.
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