All About Storytime

Meet Cynde: A Passion for Sharing Stories with Children

At Reading at the Rock Library, Storytime is more than just books—it’s a joyful experience, full of curiosity, creativity, and connection. At the heart of this beloved program is Cynde, a longtime library professional who brings a wealth of experience and warmth to every session.

Cynde worked for the local library district for thirty years, spending most of her time in Children’s and Teen services. Though she began her career teaching school, she quickly discovered her true calling: sharing her love of reading with young people through the library.

“Creating programs for the children and families in the communities where I served was always the best part of my job,” Cynde says. “The children I interacted with were my joy during those years.”

After retiring, Cynde found she missed those daily connections, so when a volunteer opportunity opened up at Reading at the Rock, she jumped at the chance to get involved again.

Storytime with Cynde: In Her Words

We asked Cynde to share more about the Storytime program in her own words—what families can expect, how it supports early literacy, and why it’s such a magical part of library life.

What do you love most about leading Storytime sessions?
I love seeing that sudden, enraptured look on a child’s face when I know they have engaged with the story I’m reading. Their excitement and their fabulous observations are what I always hope to encourage.

Do you have a favorite children’s book or author?
I have so many favorites! A few of my go-to read-alouds are Kiss the Cow by Phyllis Root, Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, and The Boy Who Loved Bananas by George Elliott.

What can families expect during a typical session?
I start with a calming stretch and a “hello” song to signal that it’s time to listen. I usually bring three to four books around a theme—like “cows” or “sharing”—and alternate stories with interactive flannel boards or action rhymes. I go with the flow; if kids need to move or play, we adjust. Sessions are usually 20 to 30 minutes.

How do stories, songs, and movement support early literacy?
Storytime fosters a love of reading, builds vocabulary through new words, and reinforces phonological awareness with repeated sounds in rhymes and songs. It also gives kids the chance to interact socially—an important skill as they prepare for school.

What age group is Storytime for, and how is it tailored to them?
We welcome children from age three through seven, so the content varies—some books are simple and some a bit more complex to engage everyone.

How do you choose themes and books?
I look for books that read well aloud—some favorites, some new—and build a theme around them using props, puppets, flannel boards, and songs.

What can caregivers do to help their children get the most out of Storytime?
Engage with the story! When caregivers listen and participate, they set an example that reading is valuable and fun.

Can you share a memorable Storytime moment?
I once had a little boy who was nearly blind and partially deaf. At first, he ran around and didn’t seem to follow what was happening. One day, he suddenly stopped, walked up close to the book, and studied the page. Something clicked. After that, he sat quietly and absorbed the stories in his own way. He especially loved when music was part of the program. I was so sad when he moved—I’ll never forget him.

What would you say to families who are new to Storytime?
We’re not too formal. If a child is having an “off” day or needs to leave the room for a bit, that’s totally fine—they can come back or just try again next time. Siblings are welcome too, and older kids sometimes get to help out. Because our group is small, it’s a very personal experience for the children.

Come Join the Storytime Fun!

Storytime at Reading at the Rock is a welcoming space where stories come to life and families grow together through the joy of reading. Whether you’re a regular or new to the library, we invite you to stop by, sing along, and share the magic of stories with us.