During the COVID-19 pandemic, while families and kids remain at home, nonprofit organizations and cultural institutions have turned to virtual programming to help keep kids entertained and engaged, and to help keep skills sharp, especially over the summer. Here at The New York Public Library, our virtual programs include a six-week Virtual Summer Camp, featuring librarians demonstrating how to complete easy at-home activities, and regular Online Storytimes. 

Outside the Library, our librarians are also featured in WNET’s Camp TV series! Camp TV airs daily (10 AM on Channel 21, 11 AM on Channel 13, and noon on NJ TV) and is archived on WNET’s website. The series is designed to engage elementary-age kids in fun learning activities over the summer. In NYPL’s Camp TV segments, librarians talk about a book they love and why kids should read it. The books we are featuring are truly some of our favorites. What unites them is the deep feelings they inspire—they’ll make kids laugh, connect, and want to learn more. Hear from our librarians below on why you should read the books we selected for our WNET segments and then check them out in e-book format from our catalog (all titles are linked below). Some of the titles are also available through the Library's free e-reader app, SimplyE. Follow that up by watching these librarians on the small screen by tuning in to Camp TV!

Alma and How She Got Her Name, written and illustrated Juana Martinez-Neal

"Is there anything about you that makes you different or unique? Maybe something you weren't always proud of? Pick up the story of Alma and How She Got Her Name and see how sometimes it takes a little storytelling to understand how to love yourself a little more."
—Ruth Rodriguez, Senior Children’s Librarian, Francis Martin Library
(Check out the e-book)

Drawn Together, written by Minh Lê and illustrated by Dan Santat 

“With very few words and amazing illustrations, this story transcends a grandparent-grandchild communication gap. The book teaches a very valuable lesson in communicating not just by words alone, but through art, storytelling, play, and imagination.”
—Margo Moore, Senior Children’s Librarian, George Bruce Library
(Check out the e-book)

Dreamers, written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales

"People should read Dreamers because it is a heartwarming and uplifting story about finding possibility in both new and unexpected places. It shows that through hope, resilience, and community, your dreams can be made a reality."
—Krystina Humbert, Senior Children’s Librarian, Mariners Harbor Library
(Check out the e-book)

Julián Is a Mermaid, written and illustrated by Jessica Love

“You should read Julián Is a Mermaid because the art, the characters, and the deeply felt emotions are unforgettable. It is the perfect book for mermaids, be they boys, girls, parents, or teachers.”
—Kevin Kelley, After School Program Coordinator
(Check out the e-book)

Last Stop on Market Street, written by Matt de la Peña and illustrated by Christian Robinson

"Last Stop on Market Street is a great reminder of how we can find fun and beauty in the things around us, even when we don't realize them at first. I hope that everyone who reads this book gets excited about creating their own adventures, wherever they go."
—Annelisa Purdie, Senior Children’s Librarian, Countee Cullen Library
(Check out the e-book)

Nikki & Deja, written by Karen English and illustrated by Laura Freeman

“Check out Nikki & Deja if you like realistic books about kids like you and the ups and downs of friendship.The two girls have to deal with their new mean neighbor and what happens when you and your best friend don’t share all the same talents.”
—Jennie Mayfield, Children’s Librarian Trainee, Parkchester Library
(Check out the e-book)

Redwoods, written and illustrated by Jason Chin

“Redwoods takes the reader on an imaginative journey that explores the beauty of nature through interesting facts about redwood trees and stunning illustrations of the world around us. This fun and unique nonfiction book will captivate children and inspire them to take their own literary adventures.”
—Kaitlin Weinstein, School Outreach Librarian
(Check out the e-book)

Thank You, Omu!, written and illustrated by Oge Mora

“Read this book because it's a deliciously sweet story about sharing and how nice it is to be a part of a community.”
—Tiffany James, School Outreach Librarian
(Check out the e-book)

Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-soaking Stream of Inventions, written by Chris Barton and illustrated by Don Tate

“From a cooling system for air conditioners and refrigerators, to a top-20 toy that has soaked plenty of kids and adults of many ages and shades (including me), Mr. Johnson is an awesome example of the phrase, ‘making something out of nothing.’ Let the earth tone hues of blue, white and brown dazzle your eyes and see the word ‘Whoosh!’ soar across the pages as you watch a young man with the endless support of his family, dream beyond his wildest expectations.”
—Sherice White, Senior Children’s Librarian, Clason’s Point Library
(Check out the e-book)

Zita the Spacegirl, written and illustrated by Ben Hatke

"Zita the Spacegirl spits its reader into a world full of mystery, offbeat character designs and often-wacky adventure—it works great as an introduction to either science fiction or adventure comics for young elementary schoolers, and features a courageous heroine who doesn't take no for an answer."
—Hal Schrieve, Children’s Librarian, Grand Central Library
(Check out the e-book)

For more book recommendations from NYPL librarians check out our Best Books for Kids lists, our 125 Kids Books We Love list, our Summer Reading list, and the Schomburg Center’s Black Liberation List for Young Readers.