Staff Picks
What should you read, watch or listen to next? We're so glad you asked!
Love stumbling on a fun book display at the library? Welcome to the online version! Dive into our Library staff’s top picks—books, movies, music, and more—by theme, age, awards, read-alikes, and all kinds of cool topics we just can’t stop talking about.
Sir Patrick Stewart RIP
Actor, author, actvist; Patrick Stewart was one of the greatest performers of his or any generation!
Eerie Period Dramas
If slasher movies and intense body horror isn't your thing here's a list of eerie period dramas for a cozy Halloween night.
Spooky Season Suggestions
I love picking out things to read and watch during Halloween. I'm drawn to stories about witches and ghosts, and cozy, supernatural stories.
Time Loop Stories for Teens
Teens stuck reliving the same time period and how they get out.
Periods, Puberty, and Positivity
Here are notable period-positive books that help break the stigma, inform readers, and celebrate menstrual health.
Christian Fiction - Teen
These books may be any genre, but all of them feature teens inspired by their faith or are focused on the struggle of good vs evil.
KC Metro Mock Awards - Printz (2026/2027)
The nomination list for the KC Metro Mock Awards.
Periods, Puberty, and Positivity
Here are notable period-positive books that help break the stigma, inform readers, and celebrate menstrual health.
Christian Fiction - Middle Grades
Books in several genres featuring kids leaning on their faith as they solve problems and grow up.
KC Metro Mock Awards - Newbery (2026/2027)
The nomination list for the KC Metro Mock Awards.
The 100th anniversary of Winnie-the-Pooh
Join us on Saturday, October 17, 10am-noon at the Central Resource Library for Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th Birthday Party!
Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur?
Fun and imaginative books similar to Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur?
Not So Scary Books for Preschoolers
These books are great for young kids who are interested in "scary books."
KC Metro Mock Awards - Caldecott (2026/2027)
The nomination list for the KC Metro Mock Awards.
Staff Pick Spotlight: America 250
Horror, Murder, and Suspense
Our October focus spotlights horror, murder, and suspense with a Kansas connection.
Agriculture and Rural Life
The September Kansas 250 Bookshelf spotlights agriculture and rural life.
Spotlight on Individual Kansans
Our America 250 August focus spotlights individual Kansans.
Kansas Food and Cookbooks
Our July Kansas 250 booklist focus features Kansas Food and Cookbooks.
Time Loop Stories for Adults
Time loops in several genres!
Time Loop Stories for Teens
Teens stuck reliving the same time period and how they get out.
Sir Patrick Stewart RIP
Actor, author, actvist; Patrick Stewart was one of the greatest performers of his or any generation!
Periods, Puberty, and Positivity
Here are notable period-positive books that help break the stigma, inform readers, and celebrate menstrual health.
Eerie Period Dramas
If slasher movies and intense body horror isn't your thing here's a list of eerie period dramas for a cozy Halloween night.
Time for Fall
Try these autumn-themed picture books to get in the fall spirit.
Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur?
Fun and imaginative books similar to Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur?
Not So Scary Books for Preschoolers
These books are great for young kids who are interested in "scary books."
Spooky Season Suggestions
I love picking out things to read and watch during Halloween. I'm drawn to stories about witches and ghosts, and cozy, supernatural stories.
Own Voices Christian Fiction
These books are all about Black protagonists coping with their lives through faith.
Christian Fiction - Middle Grades
Books in several genres featuring kids leaning on their faith as they solve problems and grow up.
Christian Fiction - Teen
These books may be any genre, but all of them feature teens inspired by their faith or are focused on the struggle of good vs evil.
Christian Fiction - Adult
These books of multiple genres all feature people leaning on their faith to help them get through life.
Novels that it keep it...complex
Consider these titles and authors if you're NOT looking for a light read.
Monster Romances
Paranormal romances are having a moment! Sweet and spicy monsters deserve love too.
KC Metro Mock Awards - Caldecott (2026/2027)
The nomination list for the KC Metro Mock Awards.