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.
100 Years of Mel Brooks
Celebrating 100 years of comedic genius Melvin (Kaminsky) Brooks; comedian, actor, director, filmmaker & author.
As a Kid, I Loved. . .
Remember that book or series you loved as a kid? Do you ever wonder what adult books would bring back that feeling? This list is for you!
Every Hidden Thing
If you like the thrill of the chase, whether it be fossils or hidden treasure, these books and DVDs are unforgettable adventures!
Pride Month Reads (Teen)
Check out some of these reads, featuring and/or authored by LGBTQIA+ individuals!
Afrofantasy for Teens
Check out these titles that draw on African cultures and mythologies to spin engaging fantasy stories for teens!
I Need a Hero: Boy Protagonists in Teen Fantasy
Does it sometimes feel like every teen fantasy novel has a girl in the spotlight? This list is the answer!
If You Liked: The Bletchley Riddle
These books are also about topics like World War II or teenagers in war or feature powerful female characters.
Large print kid chapter books
Helpful for those with seeing impairments, dyslexia, language learners or anyone who needs the encouragement of turning the page more often.
Soccer Watch Party
Here 's a list of soccer related movies and TV Shows for fans of all ages.
Sign Language for Babies - Board Book Edition
Are you interested in using sign language with your baby? Learn some basic signs from these board books!
2026 Picture Books Highlights - Part 1
Here are my favorite picture books published in the first half of 2026!
Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander - for Kids!
AANHPI month in May is a great reason to explore these books!
Under Construction --> Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Please enjoy these books all about construction work and enjoying the great outdoors!
Staff Pick Spotlight: America 250
Kansas and U.S. History
The Kansas 250 Bookshelf's June focus is Kansas and U.S. History.
Kansas in Youth Literature
The May focus of the Kansas 250 bookshelf features Kansas related youth literature.
Nature and Outdoors in Kansas
The April Kansas 250 Bookshelf focuses on exploring nature and the outdoors in Kansas.
Kansas Poetry
The Kansas 250 Bookshelf was created by the State Library of Kansas in conjunction with America 250.
100 Years of Mel Brooks
Celebrating 100 years of comedic genius Melvin (Kaminsky) Brooks; comedian, actor, director, filmmaker & author.
America 250: From ABC to Shining Z
An alphabet of America and Americana.
As a Kid, I Loved. . .
Remember that book or series you loved as a kid? Do you ever wonder what adult books would bring back that feeling? This list is for you!
Sign Language for Babies - Board Book Edition
Are you interested in using sign language with your baby? Learn some basic signs from these board books!
Every Hidden Thing
If you like the thrill of the chase, whether it be fossils or hidden treasure, these books and DVDs are unforgettable adventures!
NPR Staffers Favorite Fiction Reads so far for 2026
Check out these favorite fiction suggestions from NPR journalists from the included June 23 review article.
Large print kid chapter books
Helpful for those with seeing impairments, dyslexia, language learners or anyone who needs the encouragement of turning the page more often.
Early chapter Books that show progress
A selection published by Harper Chapters.
Pride Month Reads (Adult)
Check out some of these reads, featuring and/or authored by LGBTQIA+ individuals!
Pride Month Reads (Teen)
Check out some of these reads, featuring and/or authored by LGBTQIA+ individuals!
Soccer Watch Party
Here 's a list of soccer related movies and TV Shows for fans of all ages.
2026 Heart of America Shakespeare Festival Pick: Macbeth
Macbeth, or "The Scottish Play" is the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival's production of 2026.
If You Liked: Yesteryear
These books peel back the polished surface of marriage, motherhood, ambition and identity to reveal secrets, lies, and uncomfortable truths.
Afrofantasy for Teens
Check out these titles that draw on African cultures and mythologies to spin engaging fantasy stories for teens!
Books Recommended by New York Times Newsletter "The Morning"
The New York Times morning newsletter is a mix of short essays and headlines, often with book recommendations.
I Need a Hero: Boy Protagonists in Teen Fantasy
Does it sometimes feel like every teen fantasy novel has a girl in the spotlight? This list is the answer!