You’re never too young to enjoy a good book. Although babies are still developing their coordination, eyesight, and language comprehension, giving them books to play with and explore is a great way to start your baby on the path to literacy. Here are a handful of librarian-recommended books for the youngest readers.

White on Black by Tana Hoban

Tana Hoban is the queen of wordless picture books with striking images. When babies' eyesight is still developing, they appreciate strong, bold images with thick outlines. (Gorgeous watercolor illustrations can come later.) White on Black is great because it features silhouettes of common items in a baby’s life: teddy bear, bottle, duck. You can also look for the companion books, Black on White and What Is That?

Baby Faces by Margeret Miller

Babies are also fascinated with photographs of other babies! Margaret Miller’s series of board books, including Baby Faces, is truly captivating for babies. If your baby loves Baby Faces, try Baby Food and Baby Pets. 

Last but not least, take a look at The Neighborhood Mother Goose by Nina Crews.

Any nursery rhymes, bounces, or songs are great to share with babies, but not all Mother Goose books are created equal. Crews uses photo collages of kids in the city to illustrate classic Mother Goose rhymes like "Itsy Bitsy Spider," "Roses are Red," and "To Market, To Market." Also check out The Neighborhood Sing-Along for lots of songs to sing your baby.

What are your baby’s favorite books?