Babies and toddlers

Programs for children ages 0-5

Our programs encourage a love of books and enjoyment of the library. Programs are held across Inner West Library locations during NSW public school term times. No bookings required. 

Book Buddies

Suitable for ages 0-2 years. Introduce babies and carers to the fun and enjoyment of rhythm and nursery rhymes.

Storytime

Suitable for ages 3-5 years. Stories and rhymes to encourage a love of books and a desire to learn to read. Sessions support pre-schoolers with listening and language skills and being comfortable as part of a group in a fun and engaging way.

Family Tales

Family Tales introduces the enjoyment of books and rhythm in a lively weekend session aimed at children aged 0-5 and their carers. 

Rainbow Family Tales

Celebrate families of all shapes and sizes! There will be songs, rhymes and stories that celebrate family, inclusivity, individuality, creativity, and kindness. For children 0-5 and their families.

Program schedule

These programs run during NSW public school term times.

Term 1: Monday 2 February to Thursday 2 April
Term 2: Monday 20 April to Sunday 5 July
Term 3: Monday 20 July to Sunday 27 September
Term 4: Monday 12 October to Sunday 20 December

LocationStorytime 10.30amBook Buddies 10.30amFamily Tales 10.30amRainbow Family Tales 10.30am

Ashfield

MondayWednesday and Friday Sunday 

Balmain

WednesdayTuesday and FridaySaturday 

ETC (Dulwich Hill)

TuesdayMondaySaturday Last Saturday of the month from 28 February 

Haberfield

Tuesday WednesdaySaturday 

Leichhardt

MondayTuesday and ThursdaySunday 

Marrickville

WednesdayMonday and ThursdaySunday 
St Peters / SydenhamFridayTuesdaySaturday 
Stanmore 
 
FridayWednesdaySaturday 

Additional information

  • Our goal is to have fun together with rhymes and books in a safe and happy space.
  • Plan to arrive on time – allow extra time for parking, bathroom visits and to settle your child.
  • Please don’t leave your child unattended at any time.
  • Participate with your child.
  • If your child is crying or disrupting others, please step out and quietly return once your child is ready.
  • Please put toys away as they may distract others.
  • No food or drink to be consumed during storytime due to allergies and possible anaphylaxis.
  • Please refrain from chatting with other parents during the program as this is distracting to both the session leader and the audience.
  • Please silence your mobiles.
  • Please no photography.
  • Have fun!

Inspire little life-long learners by connecting with your local Inner West Library branch. Introduce your students to our collections, reading resources and services.

We welcome educator-led visits from preschool and childcare centres for quiet reading and or borrowing. To ensure a quality library experience, we recommend contacting the Children’s Librarian at least two weeks ahead of your planned visit. This will enable us to consider space capacities and any potential clash with regular programs at your nominated visit time.

In addition, all childcare and pre-school services located in the Inner West Council LGA are entitled to one 30min storytime delivered by library staff per year. This storytime can be delivered as a virtual visit to your centre via Microsoft Teams.

Preschools and childcare centres may also be invited to special library events throughout the year.

Please contact the Children’s Librarian to arrange a suitable time.

Contact: IWCprogramming@innerwest.nsw.gov.au

Group of school kids with tablet

Find online resources for early childhood development, reading, storytime and more.

The Magic Yellow Bus mobile playgroup

Join the Magic Yellow Bus for free play sessions in local parks, connect with other families and enjoy fun, educational activities for children aged 0–5.

Page last updated: 12 Mar 2026