About Literacy Kid Lounge + BOOKSHOP

Welcome to the Lounge, where books spark connection, creativity, and community.

Founded by Sarah LaPrade, a local author, educator, mom, and lifelong book lover, Literacy Kid Lounge + Bookshop is more than just a reading space. It is a story-rich experience designed for families who want their little ones to grow up loving books, learning through play, and making meaningful connections.

As a local author and advocate for early literacy, Sarah believes that learning to love books starts long before a child can read. It’s about building joyful rituals, sharing stories, and creating experiences that help kids feel seen, supported, and excited to learn.

Whether you're joining a weekly playgroup, celebrating your child's birthday with a storytime-inspired party, browsing the bookshop, or popping in for a community event, you're part of a growing circle of families who value learning, laughter, books, and local connection.

Learn More about Weekly Playgroup

Meet Sarah

Sarah LaPrade is the heart behind Literacy Kid Lounge + Bookshop. She's a mom, local author, literacy advocate, and the creative mind behind every storytime, playgroup, party, and sensory experience. Known to kids as "Ms. Sarah," she brings warmth, patience, and a little bit of whimsy to everything she creates.

As a local author, Sarah is passionate about creating stories and experiences that encourage children to see themselves in books, explore their imaginations, and develop a lifelong love of reading. Her work as an author and literacy advocate go hand in hand with her belief that books can be a powerful way to connect children, families, and communities.

She founded Literacy Kid Lounge + Bookshop with one simple mission: to help families build strong early literacy habits through joyful, accessible, and community-centered experiences. Whether she's sharing a favorite picture book, leading a movement activity, or creating opportunities for families to connect, Sarah believes that books have the power to bring people together and inspire a lifelong love of learning.

💫 Why Families Choose Literacy Kid Lounge

  • We blend early literacy strategies with sensory play, crafts, music, and movement — all wrapped in themed, joyful experiences. Every session is designed by Sarah (aka Literacy Lady PDX), who brings a background in literacy, play-based learning, and a deep love for community.

  • Nope! Our playgroups and events are designed for all kids — wiggly, quiet, book-loving, or just curious. We meet them where they are and invite them into a space that sparks imagination and confidence.

  • All programs are stay-and-play. That means caregivers participate too — whether it’s helping with crafts, singing along, or simply being present. It's a beautiful time to bond and connect with your child in a learning-rich space.

  • We build literacy naturally through stories, songs, themed vocabulary, hands-on activities, and conversation. Everything is intentional — but feels like fun! Sarah’s goal is to help kids build positive associations with books and communication from the very beginning.

  • Yes! In addition to our Bookworm Buddies Playgroup, we host:

    • Monthly Special Events

    • Storytime-Inspired Birthday Parties

    • Bookshop & Audiobook Recommendations

    • Occasional field trips and pop-up playdates

✨ Want something consistent in your week?

Our Bookworm Buddies Playgroup is the perfect way to build routine, literacy, and connection.

See Playgroup Schedule