Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-02-20 11:00 - 11:30 (Europe/Paris) | The American Library in Paris
This event for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories presented during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as A Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel (pictured here), which will be included in this 20 February event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Comic Club (ages 6–12)
2025-02-22 11:00 - 12:00
Bring in a favorite comic book or graphic novel to share with the group, and find out what everyone else is reading. Discuss the language of comics, comic books, and graphic novels and then create your own comic strip.
Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads will lead this event with the help of Library volunteers. Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Under the Sea (ages 3–5)
2025-02-26 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about the ocean and underwater creatures, such as Ocean: Waves for All by Stacy McNulty, illustrated by David Litchfield (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Family Dance Party (all ages)
2025-03-01 13:30 - 14:30
Join us to dance, sing, and move to classic children’s songs, and fun dance tunes. This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff members with the help of Library volunteers.
Comfortable attire is recommended!
The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. Children between the ages of 0–6 must be accompanied by a chaperone at all times while inside the Library. Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.

*Fairies, unicorns, elves, yetis, and other magical creatures are also appropriate.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Readers and Writers (ages 3–5)
2025-03-05 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about people who create stories and those who enjoy them, such as The Summer Nick Taught His Cats to Read by Curtis Manley, illustrated by Kate Berube (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-03-06 11:00 - 11:30
This event for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories presented during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as A Big Mooncake for Little Star by Grace Lin (pictured here), which will be included in this 6 March event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Bilingual Storytime (ages 3–6)
2025-03-08 10:30 - 11:30
To celebrate the centennial of France’s first children’s library (l’Heure Joyeuse)—an initiative in which our Library played an active role—we are presenting a special bilingual storytime at a Paris municipal library. Join Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie for a bilingual storytime at Médiathèque Françoise Sagan in French and English.
This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Our librarians will read books and lead you and your little ones in songs and hand-rhymes during this live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Find out more here.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Bilingual Storytime (ages 3–6)
2025-03-08 10:30 - 11:30
Join Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie for a bilingual storytime in French and English at a Paris municipal library: Bibliothèque Germaine Tillion. Laurine and Celeste will read several contemporary American picture books and lead the group in songs. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Our librarians will read books and lead you and your little ones in songs and hand-rhymes during this live, interactive session. Participants should plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Library members and non-members are welcome to sign up by email directly with the team at Bibliothèque Germaine Tillion. Please be sure to mention the age of the children and the number of chaperones when registering.
Find out more here.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Dinosaurs Roar (ages 3–5)
2025-03-12 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about dinosaurs—from triceratops to t-Rex, and more—such as How Big Were the Dinosaurs by Lita Judge (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Family Concert with Soprano Lauren Libaw (all ages)
2025-03-15 14:00 - 15:00
Enjoy classical, musical theater, and movie tunes sung by Italian-American soprano Lauren Libaw, then sing along with Lauren after learning about the styles of singing. Lauren will take questions from the audience at the end of the program about the styles of music, her training, and more.
About Lauren Libaw: Italian-American soprano Lauren Libaw has been praised for her sparkling, “bright-toned” voice (New York Times) as well as her “warmth of tone and intensity of expression” (The New Yorker). She sings internationally in recital, opera, and concert at venues including the Opéra Royal de Versailles, Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, Palais de Beaux Arts de Bruxelles, and Royal Albert Hall Elgar Room. A “masterful and affecting” recitalist (operawire.com), Lauren has been heard in song in Aix-en-Provence, Brussels, Florence, London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, and San Francisco. She does not limit herself to any one style on the recital stage, often programming music from the Great American Songbook, contemporary Broadway, French chanson, and Yiddish theater traditions alongside classical repertoire. Recent and upcoming operatic roles include Rose de Mai (Le Val d’Andorre), Adina (L’Elisir d’Amore), Cendrillon (Cendrillon), Nannetta (Falstaff), Norina (Don Pasquale) and Lauretta (Gianni Schicchi); musical theater roles include Maria (West Side Story), Eliza (My Fair Lady), Julie (Carousel), Maria (The Sound of Music), Cinderella (Into the Woods), Cosette (Les Misérables), and Christine (The Phantom of the Opera). Raised in Pasadena, California, Lauren is a graduate of Yale University, where she won the concerto and recital competitions, three academic prizes and the Sudler Prize for the Arts. She is also an alumnus of the Royal College of Music, London, and was a member of the young artist programs of the Aldeburgh Festival, the Aspen Music Festival, and the Fondation Royaumont. She lives with her family in Paris.
Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in this Library program on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone for the duration of the program.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Caregivers must remain with their children for the duration of this program. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: This is Not My Home (ages 3–5)
2025-03-19 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about moving, fitting in, and finding your place in the world such as This is Not My Home by Eugenia Yoh and Vivienne Chang (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-03-20 11:00 - 11:30
This event for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories presented during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as Go to Sleep in Your Own Bed by Candace Fleming and Lori Nichols (pictured here), which will be included in this 20 March event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie. Enjoy stories, music, movement and rhymes and help develop your child’s early literacy skills. Stay for play and social time after the event.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Saturday Series: Game Day (ages 6–12)
2025-03-22 11:00 - 12:00
Learn how to play one of the board games or card games available at the Library, or bring in a game from home to share and play. Library volunteers will help walk you through the rules of the games.
Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Caregivers are welcome to participate in this event. Please note on the registration form if you plan on attending and playing along. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. All participants must be able to understand and speak English in order to participate in the program. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Write Your Short Story (ages 8–12)
2025-03-23 14:00 - 15:30
Join Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian and YAFF Coordinator Laurine Lucie for a workshop dedicated to creative writing. Participants will begin their short stories, share their work (if they so desire!), and receive feedback from the group. This activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided.
All participants in this workshop will receive information about the Library’s Young Authors Fiction Festival 2025. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Read the Rainbow (ages 3–5)
2025-03-26 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about rainbows, and stories featuring all sorts of colors—from red to indigo and in between. Stories included in this event include picture books such as Sewing the Rainbow: The Story of Gilbert Baker and the Rainbow Flag by Gayle Pitman and Holly Clifton-Brown (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Saturday Series: Library Playoffs (ages 6–12)
2025-03-29 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for games, movement, and exploration challenges around the Children’s Library! This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff members with the help of Library volunteers. Comfortable attire is recommended!

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Spring is Here (ages 3–5)
2025-04-02 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books set in the spring, and stories about the changing seasons, such as This is How I Know by Brittany Luby, illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-04-03 11:00 - 11:30
This event for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories presented during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as Zoe and the Fawn by Catherine Jameson, illustrated by Julie Flett (pictured here), which will be included in this 3 April event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie. Enjoy stories, music, movement and rhymes and help develop your child’s early literacy skills. Stay for play and social time after the event.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Saturday Series: Treasure Maps (ages 6–12)
2025-04-05 11:00 - 12:00
Learn about treasure seekers and pirates in history, look at examples of fantasy maps, and real maps, then create a fictional world of your own and a treasure map to accompany it. You’ll learn about commonly used symbols used on maps and techniques used by cartographers as you create a treasure map to take home.

Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: What They Saw (ages 3–5)
2025-04-09 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about different perspectives, and new ways to look at the world around us. Stories included in this event include picture books such as They All Saw a Cat by Brendan Wenzel (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Creating Poetry with Adrienne Eberhard (ages 8–12)
2025-04-12 11:00 - 12:00
Find inspiration, and begin drafting your own original poem with the help of poet Adrienne Ebherhard. Participants will take a look at famous works of poetry before diving into their own writing. Children between the ages 8–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library.
About Adrienne Eberhard: Adrienne Eberhard is a Tasmanian poet and educator. She has taught poetry to students from Grade 1 to University for over 20 years. She has published five collections of poetry, with a sixth, bilingual collection due out in Paris in 2025. As well as writing, she loves being outdoors, sailing, climbing and bushwalking. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

2025 Read-A-Thon Kick-Off Party (all ages)
2025-04-12 14:00 - 15:00
The American Library in Paris and Message Paris are organizing a Read-A-Thon to encourage vacation reading, and to raise funds for the Library! This kick-off event is open to children and teens who are members of Message Paris or The American Library in Paris. Join us for the kick-off to play trivia, games, and more, then find out how to participate in the Read-A-Thon!

WHY READ FOR THE AMERICAN LIBRARY IN PARIS?
Over a 1-week period, participants are encouraged to read as much as possible and collect donations based on the number of minutes that they read! Donations will be used to support the American Library in Paris, a non-profit English language Library founded in 1920, and the largest English-language lending library on the European continent! It is a place where people gather to explore ideas, build community and connect with other English speakers. As a non-profit, we count on your donations to continue to provide programs, books and services for the English-language community. All participants who turn in a completed Read-A-Thon pack and a donation from at least one sponsor will be entered into a prize drawing. Prizes will be awarded for top readers in each of the following categories: ages 0–3, ages 4–8, ages 9–12, and ages 12–18.

ABOUT MESSAGE PARIS:
Message Paris is the largest association for English-speaking parents and parents-to-be in France! It is an entirely volunteer-run, independent, non-profit association that provides a social and support network to expectant women, new mothers and fathers, and parents of children of all ages. Message Paris is proud to bring you this Read-A-Thon in conjunction with the American Library in Paris! Learn more at www.messageparis.org.

How to participate:

Register for the 2025 Read-A-Thon! Register using the link below.

Download your Read-A-Thon materials. Download your reading log once it is sent to the email address provided.
Find sponsors (like family and friends) who will pledge (or promise!) a certain amount of money for every reading challenge that you complete (for example: 1€ per hour).
Write your sponsors on your pledge sheet. Add each sponsor’s name, address, and pledge amount to your pledge sheet.
Read! Keep a log of your reading during the week of 21–27 April! The more you read the more you raise for the Library!
Collect your pledges.
Tell your friends and family how much you read, and collect your pledges (promised donations).
Submit your pledge sheet at the Library
Turn in donations online or in-person at the Library
Attend our finale celebration to find out the top readers, and raffle winners, to meet other bookworms, and collect your certificate of participation!

Important information: This event is for Library members and members of Message Paris, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Trucks and Trains (ages 3–5)
2025-04-16 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books all about trucks, trains, and other vehicles. Stories included in this event include picture books such as The Old Truck by Jarrett Pumphrey and Jerome Pumphrey (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Assistant Children’s and Teens’ Services Librarian Laurine Lucie will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Toddler Time (ages 1–3)
2025-04-17 11:00 - 11:30
This event for children ages 1–3 and their caregivers features 30 minutes of stories, songs, and rhymes. Stories presented during our Toddler Time programs include short picture books and board books, such as Finding Things by Kevin Henkes (pictured here), which will be included in this 3 April event. This session will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads. Enjoy stories, music, movement and rhymes and help develop your child’s early literacy skills. Stay for play and social time after the event.
The program is entirely in English, as are all of our events for children and teens. No translation will be provided. Each child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone, and chaperones are required to remain with their children for the duration of the program. Parents and caregivers are expected to sit with their children beside them, or in their laps, and participate in the program. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers! Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children and Teens Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Saturday Series: Word Games (ages 6–12)
2025-04-19 11:00 - 12:00
Play rhyming games, spelling games, and more! Library volunteers will help walk you through the rules of the games.
Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Caregivers are welcome to participate in this event. Please note on the registration form if you plan on attending and playing along. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. All participants must be able to understand and speak English in order to participate in the program. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Lives of Artists (ages 3–5)
2025-04-23 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books about artists (painters, sculptors, illustrators—and authors too)! Stories included in this event include picture books such as Ideas All Around by Philip C. Stead (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services Intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Saturday Series: Eat Up—Family Snacks! (ages 6–12)
2025-04-26 14:30 - 15:30
Bring your favorite snack recipe and make a yummy snacks together! Participants will create recipe booklets to take home, which will be full of ideas for delicious snacks. Each person attending must bring in a recipe for a favorite snack and something small to share with 3–5 people. Snacks to share must be homemade—either made from scratch or assembled at home—otherwise fruit is welcome! This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff members with the help of Library volunteers.
Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Caregivers are welcome to participate in this event. Please note on the registration form if you plan on attending and playing along. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. All participants must be able to understand and speak English in order to participate in the program. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Good Enough to Eat (ages 3–5)
2025-04-30 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books about delicious foods, and about sharing meals with family and friends. Stories included in this event include picture books such as The Table by Winsome Bingham and Wiley Blevins, illustrated by Jason Griffin (pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Intern Nicole Hoffman and Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Saturday Series: Watch It Grow (ages 6–12)
2025-05-03 11:00 - 12:00
Discover the magic of seeds and stories! Join us for this fun planting event. Participants will learn about the gardening and plants, then plant a seed or seedling to take home and keep. This event will be hosted by Children’s and Teens’ Services staff members with the help of Library volunteers.
Children between the ages 6–12 may participate in Library programs on their own, while their chaperone remains inside the Library. Caregivers are welcome to participate in this event. Please note on the registration form if you plan on attending and playing along. Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. The activity is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. All participants must be able to understand and speak English in order to participate in the program. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.

Story Hour: Clever Creatures (ages 3–5)
2025-05-07 14:30 - 15:30
For this Story Hour, we’ll read picture books—both factual and fictional—about super smart animals. Stories included in this event include picture books such as Creature Features: 25 Animals Explain Why They Look the Way They Do by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page(pictured here). We’ll also sing songs and practice rhymes.
This program is entirely in English, and no translation will be provided. This participatory program is intended to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager Celeste Rhoads and Children’s and Teens’ Services Intern Nicole Hoffman will read books and lead you and your little one in songs and hand-rhymes during a live, interactive session. Plan to join in, sing along, move around, and model movement and listening for your little one. We ask that all caregivers put away their phones and other electronic devices for the duration of this program. With your help, we hope to inspire children to become lifelong readers!
Important information: This event is for Library members, and advance registration is required. Caregivers are expected to familiarize themselves with the Library Policy for Children and the Rules and Code of Conduct so that we can provide a pleasant library environment for all patrons. Questions about collections and programs for children and teens can be sent to the Library’s Children’s and Teens’ Services Manager, Celeste Rhoads: celeste@americanlibraryinparis.org.
