One of the most exciting milestones in a young child’s life is learning to read. Your child may receive information about their reading level from their school. Naturally, you may come to the library to find books within your child’s reading level. We have many tools to support you.
However, we do not label or group books together by reading level. Here are some reasons why:
- Commercial leveled reading systems are an imperfect predictor of a book’s reading level. They do not take into consideration the motivation or background knowledge of the reader.
- Reading level labels may compel young readers to search for books to reap rewards or grades, but are not necessarily based on their interest.
- There are many leveled reading systems in use across our two-county system. Multiple school districts may be represented in one library, so no one system would address everyone’s needs.
Tools & Resources
Please consider the tips below to guide your child in finding books they will enjoy that will help them develop their reading skills.
The Five-Finger Rule
Open a random page and read it. Hold one finger up for every word you don't know.
- Zero to One Fingers: This book may be too easy.
- 2-3 Fingers: A good read to learn and grow.
- 4-5 Fingers: You might not be ready to read this one independently.
Search by Lexile
Try this Lexile tool, opens a new window to help you determine the Lexile level of a book your child has read and then use the Advanced Search, opens a new window in our catalog.
Search on NoveList
Your library card provides you access to the database NoveList K8, opens a new window. Not only does NoveList help you find books by AR and Lexile levels, but it also generates read-alikes for titles, authors or series that your child already loves.
Search on OverDrive
Overdrive, opens a new window has a number of leveled reading systems available as filters in the Advanced Search, opens a new window.
Ask Library Staff for Help
Ask staff at your local library to help you search any of the resources mentioned above. Let us show you how to log into your school or district’s leveled reading lists and locate books that interest your child. Or try our Custom Reading List service for a personalized list of books that are just right for your child. We are here to help!
More tips to help you find Just Right Books, opens a new window for your child.
