Celebrate Día de los Niños at the Library!
Published on April 21, 2026
By Steven McQuay, Arlington Public Library
Celebrate a day just for kids! El día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children’s Day/Book Day), commonly known as Día, is a celebration of children and early literacy. Día was created by author and poet Pat Mora in 1996 to promote literacy and celebrate children, languages, and cultures. Since its inception, Día has grown and is now celebrated across the United States.
This year, the Arlington Public Library is hosting two programs to commemorate the occasion:
Music 'n Motion SPECTACULAR!
Thursday, April 30, 2026, 10:30–11:15 a.m., Southwest Branch
3311 S.W. Green Oaks Blvd., Arlington, TX 76017
Join us for a special Music 'n Motion Storytime celebrating El día de los niños/El día de los libros!
The Art of the Book
Thursday, April 30, 2026, 5:30–7 p.m., East Library & Recreation Center
1817 New York Ave., Arlington, TX 76010
Guests can create their own books and other book-themed crafts, enjoy storytime with our amazing staff, and participate in a Book Walk.
Free books will be available for all children who attend, while supplies last.
Patrons can also find support for early literacy at the library all year long:
Library Card
Children of any age can get their own library card with the help of their parent or guardian. With a card, they can check out up to 50 items at a time. The library offers a large collection of materials for children, including board books, picture books, and early readers. Click here to learn how to get a library card.
Read It Again Kits
These themed kits are filled with educational toys, games, DVDs, CDs, puppets, and books. Covering a wide range of subjects and concepts, each kit is designed to enhance a child’s enjoyment of learning. Kits can be checked out at any library location. Click here to see our collection of Read It Again Kits.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten
This nationwide challenge encourages parents and caregivers to regularly read aloud to their children. Reading often helps build vocabulary, listening skills, and other essential abilities children need to succeed in kindergarten. Click here to learn more about 1000 Books Before Kindergarten.