Spring into Early Literacy with the NYPL Big Playdate

Illustration of a small lion smiling
Illustration by Antonio DeJesus, 
"NYPL Sings" 

Join the Library this spring at our first-ever Big Playdate event, Friday, May 10 starting at 10:30 AM! 

Families across New York City are invited to the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building to celebrate the power of play! We’ll transform the Celeste Bartos Forum into an early learning playground with sensory activities, movement, art, and more, that will help babies and toddlers build foundational literacy skills. Plus, these activities and experiences are designed to be easily replicated at home.

Register for the Big Playdate for free on Eventbrite.

Why focus on play? Research shows that play is an important part of a child’s life. At the New York Public Library, our early literacy team and expert children’s librarians know firsthand how transformative and foundational play can be in a child’s life. Play is not just the icing on the cake of child development—it’s a core ingredient!

"We are excited to share all of the library’s resources with families, and we also want parents and caregivers to remember that you are your child’s first teacher!" says Amber Moller, chair of the Big Playdate committee. "We hope you’ll take home lots of ideas for playing, because home is where a child’s learning flourishes."

Remember to register on EventBrite for the NYPL Big Playdate, and spread the word! All are welcome, though please note we are unable to accomodate daycares, classes, or other large groups. Also, because this event is for babies and toddlers, please leave older siblings at home. 

We hope to see you Friday, May 10!