I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy

A librarian who looks very much like debut author Threets—the viral literacy advocate and host of a rebooted Reading Rainbow—kicks off a day of “library joy” in this affectionate picture book. Standing in a library’s doorway, the narrator greets patrons, warmly inviting all inside: “You belong here with your mom. You belong here with your dads. You belong here with your abuela.// You belong here if you don’t have a home! You belong here if you have a home.” With simple geometric shapes and crisp lines, Nam (Wei Skates On) depicts characters of various abilities, ages, and skin tones interacting in the bright, expansive spaces of this bustling community hub, which offers not just books to curl up with but also instruments, games, and even gardening and cooking activities. Always smiling and busy, the librarian protagonist anchors almost every scene—checking out books, leading storytime, and presenting a child with a library card (“the most special card you’ll ever have”)—embracing readers and suggesting that among a library’s greatest treasures are the people who find their place within its walls. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Lara Perkins, Andrea Brown Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Alexandra Levick, Writers House. (Feb.)