Great Stuff for Expectant Parents

I've always known the library is a great place to get information - I get to work at the library each day and see all the cool stuff we have, after all. But in getting ready for my own baby, I was SO impressed once again at all the GREAT stuff you can find at your local library. I might have spent a fortune on all the items I've checked out about babies - instead, I got it all with my library card.

So I just have to share a few of my favorite finds:

Reading Magic by Mem Fox - My mother passed this book on to me when I first started working at the library. It's all about how reading aloud to children - and babies - will change their lives forever. It's been great for my job, but took on new significance as we prepare to have a child of our own with whom we can read every day - even from day one!

DVDs - There are some awesome movies for expectant parents, like...

In the Womb - a National Geographic special that follows from conception to birth. FASCINATING!

Prenatal Yoga - I loved this workout. Always consult a doctor on such things, but this was really nice. It's tailored to every part of the pregnancy, even the end, when you can barely move.

Baby Name books - the library hase TONS. My favorite was The Best Baby Names in the World. This book was organized by country of origin, which made it easier to follow than simply a long list starting with "A." (My eyes always glaze over by the time I reach the B's.) I also got a kick out of The Baby Name Wizard, a great website which a fellow librarian showed to me.

Medical Advice - There is no substitute for your doctor's advice, but it was SO helpful to have What to Expect When You're Expecting on hand. A librarian also put me on to MedlinePlus, a website maintained by the National Library of Medicine. I used that site a lot to look up quick questions from home or just browse useful websites.

Consumer Reports - It's amazing to me how much gear there is for babies. I kept wondering, "Is this really necessary?" and more importantly, "Is this actually safe?" The library has back issues of Consumer Reports magazines, which let me look up baby gear. There's also a Best Baby Products guide written by the makers of Consumer Reports. It's really helpful in guiding you through the wild and wooly world of car seats and pacifiers.

Cookbooks - I'm not cooking for baby yet, but when I am, I know the library has lots of books on Baby Purees and other foods. For myself, I was able to use the library's many cookbooks to figure out how to eat a little healthier. It really helped with morning sickness, too.

Parenting Advice - Everyone has advice for new parents. But there are some really great books on parenting for new and expectant parents. Will I find this advice at all useful for MY child? I'm not sure. But I'm sure glad I had so many books to look at to get an idea of what to expect.

And last, but certainly not least, I found some really great children's books at the library. I can't wait to share them with the little one. And best of all, when I'm tired of reading the same kids books over and OVER again, I can come and find new ones here.

So, to all you expectant parents (and grandparents) out there - Good Luck!