The 10 best books for baby’s first library
If you’re searching for the best books for babies or wondering which board books deserve a spot in a baby’s first library, you’re not alone. As someone who’s been invited to quite a few baby showers in the past year, I’ve spent hours mulling over the perfect book to give. After all, there are a lot to choose from. Do you go for the classic board book and run the risk that someone else will gift the same title? Or do you take a chance on something new and hope it’s a big hit?
Luckily for you, I’ve compiled a short list of some excellent recommendations to help make your baby shower shopping a bit easier. Below, you’ll find 8 of the best board books for babies as well as 2 newer picture books that are sure to delight baby and parents alike—all of which are also available on Libby.
Board books
Goodnight Moon
by Margaret Wise Brown
A classic I’m sure we’re all familiar with, this simple rhyming story featuring vibrant illustrations is a quintessential bedtime read and definite must-have for baby’s first library.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
by Bill Martin, Jr.
Brown Bear was a near weekly inclusion in baby and toddler storytimes when I worked in public libraries, and for good reason: It’s easy for young ones to learn and fun to read/sing along with.
Bus Stops
by Taro Gomi
Doubling as a fun little game of “I Spy,” this board book follows a bus as it delivers passengers all over town. Gomi’s characteristics illustration style and short sentences pair perfectly to create a read the whole family will enjoy.
Guess How Much I Love You
by Sam McBratney
Many blog readers probably grew up having this story of parental love shared with them regularly, which I’m sure is why it’s the go-to baby shower gift for many of my friends.
Mouse Paint
by Ellen Stoll Walsh
One of my personal favorite storytime reads, Mouse Paint celebrates the joy of creativity while exploring colors and color mixing.
Baby Goes to Market
by Atinuke
Readers will explore food, community, and counting in this vibrant, rhythmic title about a mother and her baby out on a shopping trip.
We All Play
by Julie Flett
Author/illustrator Julie Flett presents a series of woodland animals at play followed by children engaged in their own play activities in this warm, welcoming title about the connectedness of humans and nature.
Hello Hello Opposites
by Brendan Wenzel
Part of a series by author/illustrator Brendan Wenzel, Hello Hello Opposites introduces young readers to opposite words through the lens of animals. Other titles highlight colors, numbers, and shapes.
Picture books
Go Go Dodo!
by Huw Lewis Jones
Released last September, this silly story of a carefree dodo out on a gentle stroll will grow with baby: Once they start talking, they’re sure to point out all the not-so-gentle dangers dodo never seems to notice.
Zip Zap Wickety Wack
by Matthew Diffee
Another September release, this zany picture book follows a barnyard squabble between a sheep and goat who refuse to share the same animal sound. The moral is a good one, without being overly didactic, and no one will see the mid-story twist coming.
*Title availability may vary.
RELATED READ: Raising a reader: Books for every stage of literacy development
Published Jan 12, 2026
Kate Frick
Kate Frick is a librarian for Sora, the student reading app. They love reading books to babies, going on long walks while listening to their favorite podcasts, and playing games of all shapes and sizes… and reading, of course!