Who hasn’t dropped a book in the bathtub? But perhaps it’s best not to reassure little ones about that. Here, a rabbit boy, Stew, and his chicken friend, Opal, visit the library, where first-timer Opal gets a lesson on how to care for books: stack them neatly, hold them close so they don’t fall, never turn down pages, and most of all, don’t get them wet! Still, accidents can happen as the duo learn when Opal’s pup makes a dash across the pages, ripping them. Mom cheerfully tells the kids that Opal will have to pay a fine, but fines help buy new library books. The graphics are bold cartoons that attract attention, and the commonsense advice is good. But why, oh why, does the librarian have to say ‘shhh’ on the second page?

‘How a Library Works’ is a reading level grade 2 reference book about how to explore and use a library. Stew Rabbit and Opal Owl have fun checking out the O’Hare Library with its self- checkout station, its collection of CDs, DVDs, and video games, and of course, lots of books. There are also special programs for kids! The library has rules for keeping quiet, and has books and material organized according to the Dewey Decimal system. Stew and Opal love the library, and plan to return for many more happy hours of library fun. Including a glossary, web site list, book list, and tips to remember, How a Library Works is a great introduction for kids age 7 and up to a lifetime of pleasant, peaceful, productive library usage. Other recommended titles by the same author in this series include How an e-Book Works, How to Check Out a Book, How to Find a Book, How to find Information Online, and How to Treat a Book, each priced at, $19.95 or the complete set for, $119.70.