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				How soon may I begin reading to my child? Since children develop at different rates there is no specific age when parents may begin reading to children.  As soon as your child can sit for a few moments with you and look at pictures you may begin working on simple language development.  The library houses materials for all ages of children, including board books (sturdy books with cardboard pages) for very young children. What is the difference between Easy, Easy Reader and Juvenile books? Easy books are picture books designed to be read to children by an adult.  Children love looking at the pictures, but the language is often far too advanced for young readers.  Many easy books follow a simple theme such as counting or colors. Easy Readers are designed for beginning readers.  They are all labeled with the level on the front cover.  The first level is designed for children reading with assistance of an adult.  There are few words on a page, three word sentences and many contain pictures to assist children with the story.  The highest level of easy reader resembles a small chapter book, with individual chapters,  fewer pictures and more complex sentences. These are designed for confident young readers and are the last step prior to reading a Juvenile book. Juvenile books are small chapter books with plots and character development for elementary-age students.  Juvenile books cover a large range of books from 40 page books up to the Harry Potter Series.  The key difference between these and easy readers are the lack of pictures.  These books children often refer to as "chapter books." My child only wants to read non-fiction!  What's wrong with him/her?? Nothing.  There are many literate adults who only like reading books about "real" things.  We carry a wide assortment of non-fiction titles for all ages and will be happy to find something for your child to read.  What's the difference between a YA and a J book? Fiction books at the Riegelsville Public Library receive a YA classification when the language and/or subject matter of the story is designed for someone ages 12 -17.   Very often characters in the story will encounter mature situations in relationships or with violence.  They also often use adult-lauguage throughout the course of the book.  This is not to say that YA books are simply J books with characters who swear; storylines, character and language development are also designed for a more advanced reader.  As a library we work to provide all of our readers with enjoyable material but as always we caution parents with concerns to either "pre-read" material or to ask a librarian.