From Bearded Dragons to Axolotls: 5 Library Pets Stealing the Show

For decades, library cats have held a special place in the public imagination. These feline friends were once brought in to keep mice away from delicate paper pages, but they quickly became beloved mascots that greeted readers and napped on cozy chairs.

Today, the traditional library cat has been joined by a surprising and delightful mix of non-cat companions. Across the country, libraries are welcoming unexpected critters that captivate patrons, encourage reading, and bring neighbors together in creative ways.

Here are five unique library pets making a big mark on their communities.

1. Dewey the Library Dragon

Dewey the Library Dragon is a bearded dragon who lives at Moshannon Valley Elementary School's library in Pennsylvania. From his tank, he watches the playground and keeps an eye on students heading to and from the library.

Students love to visit Dewey, help feed him, and watch him shed his skin. During STEM lessons, they build elevators, cars, and slides for him, measure his length using nonstandard units, and chart his growth over time. The library's “Read a Book to Dewey” station is always busy, especially with kids who feel nervous about reading—Dewey's calm presence makes the library feel welcoming and turns practice into something they look forward to.

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2. Atlas the Bearded Dragon

At the Millicent Library in Fairhaven, Massachusetts, visitors in the Young Adult room are greeted by Atlas, a three-year-old bearded dragon.

Atlas moved into the library in 2022 and quickly became a local celebrity. He lives in his own cozy space called Atlas’s Alcove, where kids and teens can sit and read aloud to him. Because bearded dragons are calm, quiet listeners, reading to Atlas gives young readers a low-pressure environment to practice their skills and build reading confidence.

3. Professor Yoda the Owl

Some library pets earn their keep by taking on official campus jobs. Professor Yoda, a European eagle owl, made headlines when he received his very own library card at the University of Bath.

Yoda was brought in with his handler to solve a major problem on campus: aggressive seagulls. By patrolling the outdoor grounds, he gently scared off the gulls and made the library plazas safer for students. In recognition of his work, the university issued him a card, turning a working bird into a beloved campus icon.

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4. Axl Prose the Axolotl

With his wide smile and permanent aquatic home, Axl Prose the Axolotl brings a splash of science to the Centre County Library and Historical Museum in Bellefont, Pennsylvania. Named through a clever play on words, this rare pink salamander serves as a living biology lesson for curious visitors.

Patrons love stopping by his tank to watch him swim while learning about aquatic life and environmental care. Axl Prose bridges the gap between science and literature, showing how libraries connect readers to the natural world.

5. Tortellini the Tortoise

Slow and steady wins the heart of Michigan’s Belleville Area District Library community, which is certainly true for Tortellini the Tortoise. Tortellini is a gentle resident who moves at her own relaxed pace, giving children a fun, hands-on way to learn about reptiles.

This past June, the library held a massive birthday party for Tortellini that brought families together for crafts, turtle-themed games, and special treats. Events like Tortellini’s birthday celebration transform an ordinary day at the library into a festive gathering where neighbors of all ages can connect.

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Does Your Library Have a Mascot?

Unusual pets and mascots do far more than look cute. They bring joy to everyday library visits, inspire reluctant readers, and give communities a shared experience that feels uniquely local.

Take a moment to check your library’s website or ask a librarian whether your branch has an official mascot, pet, or unexpected critter. And if not, it might be time to drop a fun suggestion in the box.

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