Libraries are amazing places for children to explore.

And this Saturday gives parents an additional reason to take youngsters to the local venue: it’s Take Your Child to the Library Day.

TYCLD may be an international initiative now, but it all began in Connecticut. Nadine Lipman (who was head of children’s services at Waterford Public Library but is now retired) was inspired to create the day after reading about Take Your Child to the Bookstore Day. She and Caitlin Augusta of Stratford Library, along with artist Nancy Elizabeth Wallace, launched the program in 2012.

The idea is to raise awareness about how vital a library can be in the life of a child, including making families aware of libraries’ programs and services.

Among the libraries in the area who are participating are:

Waterford Public Library, whose offerings include a story with a stroll featuring “Thank You, Omu!” by Oge Mora

Bill Memorial Library in Groton, which will give kids a chance to create a Pete the Cat craft

Preston Public Library, which will feature crafts and new learning tools

See the Saturday calendar page in this section for more information.