Hi! I’m a teacher by trade and a mom by heart. Between lesson plans and lunchboxes, I know just how hard it can be to carve out meaningful, screen-smart reading time. That’s why I’m always sharing tools I trust—and Libby tops the list.

Libby is a free reading app that connects your family to a treasure trove of ebooks and audiobooks from your local public library. It’s safe, low-maintenance, and packed with features that make it easy for kids to dive into reading—without you having to manage every click.

Why Libby Works for Busy Families

Totally Free

No subscriptions, no ads, and no late fees. Just a library card and thousands of books.

Read to Me” Audio Feature

Perfect for developing readers or multitasking parents, this feature lets kids follow along as the book is read aloud.

Offline Access

Download a book once and read anywhere—on road trips, flights, or while waiting at baseball practice.

Simple Setup

The kid-friendly design makes it easy for children to navigate without constant help.

Top Picks on Libby for Ages 6–10

(All books include Lexile and Fountas & Pinnell (F&P) levels so you can choose based on your child’s needs.)

Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties

 

By Dav Pilkey | Lexile 310L | F&P M | Graphic Novel/Humor

Dog Man and Cat Kid join forces in this hilarious adventure that keeps emerging readers laughing (and turning pages).

Narwhal and Jelly: Unicorn of the Sea!

By Ben Clanton | Lexile 460L | F&P N | Graphic Novel

This charming, quirky tale of underwater friendship is a huge hit with younger readers—and grown-ups too.

Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark

By Mary Pope Osborne | Lexile 510L | F&P N | Chapter Book/Adventure

Jack and Annie’s very first time-traveling trip sparks wonder, curiosity, and a love of reading.

Last Kids on Earth

By Max Brallier | Lexile 650L | F&P Q | Illustrated Novel/Adventure

Monsters, gadgets, and middle school? This slightly spooky (but super fun) series is great for readers who want a little edge with their imagination.

Magic School Bus: The Electric Field Trip

By Eva Moore | Lexile 610L | F&P O | Educational Chapter Book

Follow Ms. Frizzle into a bright and buzzing adventure that makes science feel exciting—and totally doable.

Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea

By Cynthia Rylant | Lexile 230L | F&P J | Early Reader/Humor

Simple sentences, gentle humor, and heartwarming moments make this series a top pick for new independent readers.

How to Get Started in 3 Easy Steps:

 

1. 1. Download the Libby app on any tablet, phone, or device.

 

• • Connect your public library card (need one? Most libraries offer digital sign-ups).

 

• • Borrow your first book—and explore the “Read to Me” feature to make reading a shared, screen-smart activity.

Bonus Tip: Lock in Reading Time

Want your child to stick to just Libby? My next post shows you how to use Guided Access on Apple devices to limit your child’s access to one app at a time. (It’s a tech trick every parent should know.)

Bottom Line

Libby is my go-to tool for helping kids fall in love with books. It’s easy, engaging, and best of all—free. Whether you’re a busy parent, a teacher on break, or a caregiver looking to simplify screen time, Libby brings books to your family with zero hassle.

Want a Free Printable Version?

I’m putting together a downloadable PDF and a printable summer reading checklist. Sign up for my email list and I’ll send it straight to your inbox!