November is bringing National Children’s Book Week and other events aimed at kids to the Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Ave.

The event is promoted each year by the Children’s Book Council. The goal of the event is to “encourage children and families to read,” said Carol Elbert, youth services coordinator.

Several events this month will be highlighting the best children’s books of 2002. Each event is free and will be held in the Farwell T. Brown Auditorium at the Ames Library, she said.

Already in progress is the Storytelling Workshop, co-sponsored by the Children’s Theater Group and led by storyteller and teacher Jane Kennedy.

The workshop teaches children “how to select a story, prepare a story and how to present as a storyteller,” Elbert said.

It’s also a great way for students to practice speaking and listening techniques and become part of the story, Kennedy said.

This three-part event concludes this Saturday with a storytelling performance by children for their parents.

This year is the first Storytelling Workshop at the library. Elbert said that so far, the group has been terrific.

Also in progress is the library’s annual Fall Reading Program, co-sponsored by Papa Murphy’s. This program, which runs until Nov. 24, awards children prizes for “reading books and visiting the library or Bookmobile,” Elbert said.

During the month, several classes from local area schools have been visiting the library and getting the opportunity to see the best of new children’s books.

On Nov. 14, the library will hold its monthly Parent-Craft Storytime. This event is a half-hour of story time followed by a craft-related event.

Elbert will give a presentation to adults on Nov. 19 highlighting some of the best children’s books of 2002, she said.

A few of the books Elbert plans to discuss include “Ducks on a Bike” by David Shannon, “The Same Stuff as Stars” by Katherine Pattern and “Catalyst” by Laurie Halls Anderson. The discussion will review books for pre-readers through young adults.

“[This event is open to] anyone interested in children’s books — parents, grandparents, teachers — anyone,” Elbert said.

On Nov. 23, Allen Roen, a magician and illusionist from Cedar Rapids, will be performing a Family Magic Show.

Though only 19 years old, Roen said he has been doing magic shows for seven years, including a library tour last summer. Roen said his act will feature plenty of audience participation.

His performance will feature “interactive stuff with kids to get them excited about reading and why it’s cool,” he said.