The Best Books for Babies selection process looked a lot different this year. No surprise, right? But we’re happy to report that we still came up with a list of titles that we believe offer something special to babies and their grown-ups.

With much juggling of schedules (and much appreciated flexibility), our group of local librarians and child development experts met virtually to determine the 2021 Best Books for Babies.

We hope that identifying these books will encourage parents and other caregivers to read to babies beginning at birth. We also want to recognize the publishers who create excellent books for the very youngest listeners.

The books selected, including an innovative fold-out board book, books with fun movable features, stories about young families and familiar songs and rhymes will delight and engage babies age birth through 18 months and the adults who care for them.

Please pick up one (or two!) of these titles soon—or choose books from previous Best Books for Babies lists—and share them with a baby in your life. In addition to spending some cozy time together, you’ll be preparing your baby’s brain to learn and grow.

You can sign up for a free library card here. 

Looking for a good book, album, movie or TV show? We’re happy to recommend them to you! Use this Personalized Recommendations form to send us some information about what you like and we’ll curate a list just for you.

If you have any additional questions, you can contact a librarian through Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. You can also call us at 412.622.3114 or email us at info@carnegielibrary.org.