Support for parents and babies in libraries

Join the library

Anyone who lives, works, or studies in Hampshire can join our library and it’s free! We have lots of books and resources to support you as a parent as well as some fantastic books for children. It’s never too early to start sharing books.

When a book might help

Sharing stories about situations can help put a child’s mind at ease, and make transitions and new experiences more understandable and easier to cope with. These story books can help explain new situations to small children.

We also offer a selection of books providing support for anyone affected by miscarriage and baby loss.

Childcare and early years

Hampshire County Council provide information for parents and carers who are looking for childcare or early years education in Hampshire.

Find out more about your childcare options, including guidance on costs and funding for childcare places.

First words together

Babies communicate long before they start to talk, through gestures and vocalising. Sharing books supports this communication and language development.

If you'd like support nurturing your baby's communication, use this online form to request a place on our First Words Together courses or contact ChatHealth to request a place on our First Words Together courses.

First Words Together Parent/Carers Programme Privacy Notice

Bookstart

Bookstart is a scheme that gifts a free book pack to every baby born in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales.

Sharing books, stories and rhymes with your child from an early age can help create a lifelong reader. Every child in England and Wales is offered a free Bookstart pack before they are 12 months old.