FAQs for children & families

Our Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get free books for my children from Twice Upon a Time?

We currently have two pop-up bookstore locations in Ottawa. Families can visit us at the Overbrook Community Centre and BGC Ottawa - Don McGahan Clubhouse during our hours of operation.

We also have two self-serve bookshelves. Families can find books in Heartwood House’s front lobby during their hours of operation, while young clients of the Vanier Social Pediatric Hub can grab a book as part of their social prescribing program.

And be sure to visit us during community events! Follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) to find out when we are participating in Ottawa events.

Can anyone get a free book?

Young readers from birth to 12 years of age, and their parents, can grab one book each to take home every time they visit one of our locations.

How often can I visit Twice Upon a Time’s locations to get a free book for my child?

We look forward to welcoming you every chance we get! Visit our pop-up bookstores each week during our opening hours for your free book.

How many books can I take per visit?

Children and adults are welcome to take home one book each per visit.

What kinds of books are available at Twice Upon a Time’s locations?

We have books for children from birth to 12 years old in both English and French. You will find board books, picture books, books for early readers, graphic novels, and preteen novels, amongst others. We have fiction and non-fiction books, popular titles, books that celebrate diversity, books for children with low vision and those who are reluctant readers, and everything in between!

Have you considered expanding your reach to children older than 12 years old?

Twice Upon a Time has decided to focus on books for children ages 0-12 years old for many reasons:
  • We want to focus on supporting early literacy skills, as those building blocks are crucial in children's development
  • Younger kids have less access to reading material
  • Our resources are limited and we can have more impact by focusing on books for younger children

Where can I find additional resources that would help encourage literacy in the children in my community?

This page contains a list of literacy resources that parents, caretakers, and teachers may find useful.

Have a question that's not listed here?

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