One of the most underrated Christmas traditions? Pulling out the plastic bin of decorations. Like unearthing a time capsule—I sort through the haphazardly wrapped ornaments, homemade crafts, and tangled lights, and wonder... what did I throw in here while sipping my New Year’s morning mimosa? Each ornament and knickknack has its own story, which I nostalgically impart on my daughter as we rustle through the pile.

“We got this when you were born!”
“This was your grandma’s.”
“Remember that trip when you were three? We got it there!”

After 9 years, she’s able to tell most of their stories now. And I especially love dusting off our collection of holiday books. Like the knickknacks, they each bring back a memory of reading under the tree or nestled under blankets in bed. As we pull out The Elf on the Shelf with pages torn and tattered from tiny, grabby toddler hands (did you know there’s now a cookbook!?), I wonder which ones she’ll remember fondly year after year.

Grab a cup of cocoa with marshmallows and rediscover these stories from season’s past on the Libby app.

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg (1985)

A young boy, lying awake one Christmas Eve, is welcomed aboard a magical train to the North Pole.

At the top of my list, this classic is for all those who believe, come Christmas Eve, that they too will hear the sweet sound of a reindeer's silver bell.

Reading this story together has become a beloved tradition for many families. It was remade into an animated film featuring the voice of Tom Hanks in 2004.

The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen (1845)
🎧 Audiobook

Talk about a tearjerker! A barefoot girl tries unsuccessfully to make money for her family by selling matches on the street. Afraid to go home empty-handed and face her father's wrath, she decides to take shelter in an alley for the night and lights matches to keep herself warm. The harsh realism of this story reminds listeners to be grateful and kind during the holiday season.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry (1905)
🎧 Audiobook

A young and very much in love couple can barely afford their one-room apartment, let alone the extra expense of getting Christmas presents for one another. But each is determined to show their love for the other in this traditional time of giving; each sells a thing they hold most dear in order to afford a present, with poignant and touching results that capture their love for one another.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss (1957)
🎧 Audiobook

Not since “’Twas the night before Christmas” has the beginning of a Christmas tale been so instantly recognizable. From the Grinch and his dog, Max, to Cindy-Lou and all the residents of Who-ville, this story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will warm even the coldest and smallest of hearts.

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs (1978)

After the snow settles on a cold winter's day, a little boy builds a Snowman. Later that night, under the glittering stars, the Snowman comes to life. Together they fly through the night sky on a breathtaking and magical journey, until the sun comes up and it's time to go home.

This classic, wordless picture book was adapted into an animated movie in 1982.

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)
🎧 Audiobook

The adventures of a little boy in the city on a very snowy day isn't specific to a holiday, but captures the magic and sense of possibility of winter's first snowfall. Universal in its appeal, the story has become a favorite of millions, as it reveals a child's wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever.

Santa Mouse by Michael Brown (1966)

Meet a tiny mouse with no name who is nevertheless blessed with a large imagination and a generous spirit. He lives a very lonely life in a very big house. He dearly loves Christmas and one Christmas Eve he surprises Santa Claus with a most unusual present. How does this small mouse with a big heart become Santa's special helper?

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J. K. Rowling (2000)
🎧 Audiobook

The Yule Ball, which takes places in Book 4, perfectly captures the festive spirit of the holidays, with its dazzling décor and elegant attire, set against the backdrop of a snow-covered Hogwarts. This book is perfect to revisit for the holidays with its wintry charm and cozy, magical feel.

*Title availability may vary by library & region.

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