Your Story Starts Early
Features & Highlights
What's Going on at cfpl for YOUTH
During storytime, we read fun stories, utilize fingerplays, rhyme, and sing songs that will help your child begin the journey of being a lifelong reader as well as develop pre-literacy skills. Pre-literacy skills are the things children know about reading and words before they can read, such as letter shapes and sounds. Scholastic explains it well in this article. We also have crafts!
Are you an educator looking for resources? Look no further than our Youth Services for Educators page.
Creation Stations
Tuesday, February 10 at 4:15 p.m. | Youth Department
Drop in and explore a variety of creative mediums to discover new and interesting ways to express yourself! For children ages 6-9.
Sweet Tooth
Tuesday, February 17 at 4:15 p.m. | Co-Lab
Love sweet treats? Join us at our Sweet Tooth program, where we make and eat our creations! We will make banana pudding cups. Ages 8-12. Registration Required
Ages 8-12
Coffee, Conversation, and Kids
Thursday, February 19, from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Youth Department
Are you craving coffee and conversations with other adults? Are you looking for potential play date friends for your kids? Then this program is for you! Chill, chat, and connect in the storytime area. We'll have snacks, coffee, and toys out for the kids. For parents of children ages 0-6.
Sponsored by The Friends of The Cedar Falls Public Library
Book Bundles
Don’t know what to read next? We’ve got you covered.
Step One
FILL OUR OUR “BOOK BUNDLE REQUEST” FORM BELOW.
Step Two
We’ll let you know when your curated selection of books is ready to pick up.
Step Three
Enjoy a selection of books chosen with you in mind.
Upcoming Programs & Events
Youth Department
Events
Calendar of Events
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Thursday
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Saturday
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1 event,
Youth Department.Have you ever wanted to be a librarian? Well, here is your chance! Kid Librarian at CFPL is where one lucky kid will be drawn every month and picked to be a librarian for an afternoon! They will get to make their very own book display of their own interests that will be up […] |
1 event,
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Youth Department. Join us for baby storytime as we sing, read, bounce, and rhyme! It's a great time to cuddle your baby close and have fun while introducing them to skills that will help them become future readers. After storytime, join us for a free play session. For babies 0-23 months Youth. Sponsored by the […] |
2 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Preschool Storytime as we read, sing, dance, and play. Parents are encouraged to embrace their inner child and dance and sing along with their child/ren. For preschoolers, ages 3-5. Youth Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
2 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Toddler Storytime as we read, sing, dance, rhyme, and get silly. Storytime is a great way to introduce your toddler to the joy of reading and to the preliteracy skills that will help them become future readers. For toddlers, ages 2-3. Youth. Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls […]
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Co-Lab.Youth. Ages 9-12Tired of winter weather and looking for a little sunshine to brighten your day? It may be dreary outside, but we can bring warmer weather vibes indoors! Tweens (kids ages 9-12) are invited to join us for an indoor picnic! We'll kick off the program in the Co-Lab, where we'll assemble our individual […] |
2 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for some hands-on learning. Children and their caregivers will navigate sensory stations and discover new ways to learn and play. Ages 0-5Youth.
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Co-Lab, 2nd FloorMeets the first Thursday of every month in the CoLab of the Cedar Falls Public Library. Join us for a hands-on science experience! Each session is packed full of […] |
1 event,
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Youth Department. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Get ready to dance and be silly! We'll read books that encourage movement, sing songs, and shake our sillies out! Ages 2+, Youth. […] |
1 event,
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Youth Department Enjoy storytime with the whole family! Get ready to read, dance, and sing! Youth, Ages 0-5 Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
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0 events,
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2 events,
Youth Department. Fable the Fox wants to hear all about your interests! Come on down to CFPL into the Youth department to fill out a “Tell Fable About Yourself” sheet and put it into Fable’s special mailbox. Fable will then team together with their librarian friends to write you back a letter and give you some […]
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Youth Department. Join us for baby storytime as we sing, read, bounce, and rhyme! It's a great time to cuddle your baby close and have fun while introducing them to skills that will help them become future readers. After storytime, join us for a free play session. For babies 0-23 months Youth. Sponsored by the […] |
3 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Preschool Storytime as we read, sing, dance, and play. Parents are encouraged to embrace their inner child and dance and sing along with their child/ren. For preschoolers, ages 3-5. Youth Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
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Youth DepartmentDrop in and explore a variety of creative mediums to discover new and interesting ways to express yourself!For Ages 6-9 |
3 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Toddler Storytime as we read, sing, dance, rhyme, and get silly. Storytime is a great way to introduce your toddler to the joy of reading and to the preliteracy skills that will help them become future readers. For toddlers, ages 2-3. Youth. Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls […]
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Youth Department (Storytime Corner) This is a social program just for tweens (for ages 9-12) that entertains, enriches, and empowers. Tweens are invited to drop in and check it out on the 2nd and 3rd Wednesdays of most months at 3:00-4:00 p.m. This program is held once a month during June and July and then returns to […] |
2 events,
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Youth K-3rd, Meeting Room, 2nd FloorMeets on the second Thursday of every month at 4:15 PM in the Meeting Room at the Cedar Falls Public Library.Pack your bags and grab your passport - adventure awaits! Each month we’ll “travel” to a new place and collect passport stamps. The next stop on our Travel Thursday adventure: […] |
3 events,
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Youth Department. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Get ready to dance and be silly! We'll read books that encourage movement, sing songs, and shake our sillies out! Ages 2+, Youth. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
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Youth, ages 8-12, Meeting RoomWelcome to the Library Olympics!Get ready to compete for glory at the Library Olympics! In honor of the 2026 games, we’re hosting our own version - no ice required. Choose your own country and design your country’s flag, then test your skills in events like paper plate speed skating, Oreo curling, […] |
2 events,
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Youth Department Enjoy storytime with the whole family! Get ready to read, dance, and sing! Youth, Ages 0-5 Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
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1 event,
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4 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for baby storytime as we sing, read, bounce, and rhyme! It's a great time to cuddle your baby close and have fun while introducing them to skills that will help them become future readers. After storytime, join us for a free play session. For babies 0-23 months Youth. Sponsored by the […]
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Youth Department. Calling all Aldrich Elementary students! Join us for a night at the public library! Complete a scavenger hunt and a craft, meet Fable, play games, and explore the library! For families. The library's Safe Child Policy applies to all programs - children under 11 will need a responsible caregiver present and in the […]
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Would you care for a game of chess? Join fellow players at the Cedar Falls Public Library's meeting room (2nd floor) to meet your next opponent. The club meets regularly on the 3rd Monday of each month.This gathering is open to all ages, but a firm grasp of chess is expected from all players as […] |
3 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Preschool Storytime as we read, sing, dance, and play. Parents are encouraged to embrace their inner child and dance and sing along with their child/ren. For preschoolers, ages 3-5. Youth Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
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CoLab.Youth. Ages 8-12Love sweet treats? Join us at our Sweet Tooth program, where we make and eat our creations! We will make banana pudding cups. Ages 8-12. Registration RequiredCoLab.Youth. Ages 8-12Sponsored by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
3 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Toddler Storytime as we read, sing, dance, rhyme, and get silly. Storytime is a great way to introduce your toddler to the joy of reading and to the preliteracy skills that will help them become future readers. For toddlers, ages 2-3. Youth. Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls […]
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Youth Department (Storytime Corner) This is a social program just for tweens (for ages 9-12) that entertains, enriches, and empowers. Tweens are invited to drop in and check it out on the 2nd and 3rd Wednesdays of most months at 3:00-4:00 p.m. This program is held once a month during June and July and then returns to […] |
2 events,
-
Youth Department. Are you craving coffee and conversations with other adults? Are you looking for potential play date friends for your kids? Then this program is for you! Chill, chat, and connect in the storytime area. We'll have snacks, coffee, and toys out for the kids. For parents of children ages 0-6. Youth. Adult. |
3 events,
-
Youth Department. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Get ready to dance and be silly! We'll read books that encourage movement, sing songs, and shake our sillies out! Ages 2+, Youth. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
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Youth, Co-Lab, 2nd FloorCalling all makers in grades 3-6! Step into the “Fidget Factory” and design your very own collection of stress-busting, focus-boosting toys. Ranging from stress balls to beaded fidgets and more, you’ll leave with a toolkit of creations made by you. Come tinker, twist, squish, and snap your way to fun!Perfect for makers […] |
2 events,
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Youth Department Enjoy storytime with the whole family! Get ready to read, dance, and sing! Youth, Ages 0-5 Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
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In the Meeting Room.Join us for monthly movie screenings that are fun for the whole family! We'll provide the popcorn, but feel free to bring your own snacks, refreshments, and maybe even a cozy blanket or two. February's movie pick is "The Iron Giant", showtime is at 2:00 pm. The movie runtime is 1 hour and 25 minutes.This […] |
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0 events,
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2 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for baby storytime as we sing, read, bounce, and rhyme! It's a great time to cuddle your baby close and have fun while introducing them to skills that will help them become future readers. After storytime, join us for a free play session. For babies 0-23 months Youth. Sponsored by the […]
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Youth Department (Storytime Corner)Tweens (kids ages 9-12) are invited to join us for a monthly book club! We'll enjoy a group activity and a discussion on this month's book. This month's book is Ghost by Jason Reynolds. To register and pick up a copy of the book, please email the youth desk at youth@cedarfallslibrary.org or call the youth desk […] |
2 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Preschool Storytime as we read, sing, dance, and play. Parents are encouraged to embrace their inner child and dance and sing along with their child/ren. For preschoolers, ages 3-5. Youth Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
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Youth DepartmentKids ages 7-9 are invited to join us for a monthly book club! We'll enjoy a group activity and a discussion on this month’s book. To register and arrange a pickup for the book, please email the youth desk at youth@cedarfallslibrary.org or call the youth desk at 319-859-3282. Registration Required. |
2 events,
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Youth Department. Join us for Toddler Storytime as we read, sing, dance, rhyme, and get silly. Storytime is a great way to introduce your toddler to the joy of reading and to the preliteracy skills that will help them become future readers. For toddlers, ages 2-3. Youth. Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls […]
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Co-Lab.Youth. Ages 6-12.Join us monthly for a fun, relaxing, crafty day where you and your kiddo can create awesome art together. Ages 6-12. Registration Required. This month's craft: Paint and personalize a wooden heart keyring.Co-Lab.Youth. Ages 6-12.Sponsored by The Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
0 events,
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1 event,
-
Youth Department. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Get ready to dance and be silly! We'll read books that encourage movement, sing songs, and shake our sillies out! Ages 2+, Youth. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
1 event,
-
Youth Department Enjoy storytime with the whole family! Get ready to read, dance, and sing! Youth, Ages 0-5 Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library. |
Events
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STEMventurers! Electric Explorers
Co-Lab, 2nd FloorMeets the first Thursday of every month in the CoLab of the Cedar Falls Public Library. Join us for a hands-on science experience! Each session is packed full of […]
-
Music and Movement Storytime
Youth Department. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Get ready to dance and be silly! We'll read books that encourage movement, sing songs, and shake our sillies out! Ages 2+, Youth. […]
-
Family Storytime
Youth Department Enjoy storytime with the whole family! Get ready to read, dance, and sing! Youth, Ages 0-5 Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
-
Letters From a Librarian
Youth Department. Fable the Fox wants to hear all about your interests! Come on down to CFPL into the Youth department to fill out a “Tell Fable About Yourself” sheet and […]
-
Baby Storytime
Youth Department. Join us for baby storytime as we sing, read, bounce, and rhyme! It's a great time to cuddle your baby close and have fun while introducing them to skills that will help them become future readers. After storytime, join us for a free play session. For babies 0-23 months Youth. Sponsored by the […]
-
Preschool Storytime
Youth Department. Join us for Preschool Storytime as we read, sing, dance, and play. Parents are encouraged to embrace their inner child and dance and sing along with their child/ren. For preschoolers, ages 3-5. Youth Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
-
Creation Stations
Youth DepartmentDrop in and explore a variety of creative mediums to discover new and interesting ways to express yourself!For Ages 6-9
-
Toddler Storytime
Youth Department. Join us for Toddler Storytime as we read, sing, dance, rhyme, and get silly. Storytime is a great way to introduce your toddler to the joy of reading and to the preliteracy skills that will help them become future readers. For toddlers, ages 2-3. Youth. Funded by the Friends of the Cedar Falls […]
-
Tween Time
Youth Department (Storytime Corner) This is a social program just for tweens (for ages 9-12) that entertains, enriches, and empowers. Tweens are invited to drop in and check it out on the 2nd and 3rd Wednesdays of most months at 3:00-4:00 p.m. This program is held once a month during June and July and then returns to […]
-
Travel Thursdays: Brazil!
Youth K-3rd, Meeting Room, 2nd FloorMeets on the second Thursday of every month at 4:15 PM in the Meeting Room at the Cedar Falls Public Library.Pack your bags and grab your passport - adventure awaits! Each month we’ll “travel” to a new place and collect passport stamps. The next stop on our Travel Thursday adventure: […]
-
Music and Movement Storytime
Youth Department. Geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Get ready to dance and be silly! We'll read books that encourage movement, sing songs, and shake our sillies out! Ages 2+, Youth. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library.
-
Library Olympics!
Youth, ages 8-12, Meeting RoomWelcome to the Library Olympics!Get ready to compete for glory at the Library Olympics! In honor of the 2026 games, we’re hosting our own version - no ice required. Choose your own country and design your country’s flag, then test your skills in events like paper plate speed skating, Oreo curling, […]
Resources for Parents
Youth Department
Kid Librarian
Have you ever wanted to be a librarian? Well, here is your chance! We are introducing Kid Librarian at CFPL, where one lucky kid will be drawn every month and picked to be a librarian for an afternoon! Read about our kid librarians here!
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free, quality books to children from birth until age five.
Spooky Story Contest Winners
Check out the annual spooky story contest winners along with links to their stories!
Our Music Garden
Visit our Music Garden behind the library! Colorful instruments now fill green space by State St., creating an area that fosters multi-generational entertainment, encourages creativity, and engages the senses. Create music, play together, and have fun!
Adventure Pass
Have you heard of our Adventure Pass system? Check out passes to fun places, such as the Blank Park Zoo, The Science Center of Iowa, and the Grout Museum District.
Big Woods Lake StoryWalk®
Spend time with family/friends, enjoy nature, and read the more recent storybook installation.
Kids' Homework Help
Recommended websites and databases for homework help!
Tumblebooks
TumbleBooks are animated, talking picture books which teach kids the joy of reading in a format they'll love.
Resources for Parents/Guardians
A list of educational and library-related resources for parents and gaurdians.
Youth Book Recommendations
A list of CFPL librarian-curated youth book recommendations.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
This program is part of a national literacy initiative to encourage parents and caregivers to read often to their children before they begin school.
Kids Links
Fun, educational links for kids to enjoy!
The Importance of Early Childhood Literacy
A collection of stats in keys areas in child literacy to help prepare you to make a difference in the lives of your children.
