Blog

The library is a special place for families. What would make life better for your family? It’s highly likely that we can help! Here’s a brief overview for busy families.

Spaces Just for Kids and Their Grown-ups

Kids of all ages can come to the library to explore, learn, play, and read. The big Kids Room is full of books, of course, and lots of spots to read and find and share the books. The fish tank is always popular! And you’ll also find surprising things to do and toys to play with. When kids help clean up after playing, they can even get a sticker for helping. 

Smaller spaces are designed for specific activities or ages. For the older kids, there’s a computer lab and several study rooms for concentrating or working in small groups. The BOOMbox is a space dedicated to STEAM exploration for kids in grades K-8, with new activities featured regularly. The courtyard is a favorite space for families to play or participate in group activities led by library staff. 

When the Activity Room isn’t being used for an event, it’s a great place to make some art. And we have a private nursing room, as well as a sensory break room for times when the big room is just too stimulating and a break is needed. When it’s time for a snack, the Café is close to the Kids Room and offers tables and vending machines if you didn’t bring your own snacks.

So bring the kids and explore. To make your visit the best it can be, staff members are always available to point you to what you want and to answer any questions or help solve any problems you may have. Kids younger than eight need to have a grown-up with them at all times. At parent's discretion, older kids may use the library independently.

Books, Books, Books

From board books for the newest family members to gorgeous picture books, to fiction and nonfiction for new and experienced readers, you may find yourself taking home as many books as you can carry! It’s never too early to help kids build a love of reading, and our staff will always help kids find just the right book for them. The Grow a Reader program focuses on babies to kindergarten, and every June and July, our fabulously fun summer reading is for all ages (you, too, grown-ups!). 

We know you’re busy, so you can leave the searching to us. You know your kids and we know books. With our Bookmatch for Kids service, you can take full advantage of our staff’s expertise and get custom recommendations just for your child. 

Oh, and it’s easy to forget, because there wasn’t enough space inside the Kids Room, but we have more than books. The videos for kids are along the wall just outside the Kids Room, so be sure not to miss those!

Events for Kids and Families

Our calendar is bursting with fun, free events for families. Storytimes take place multiple times a week–some for families and others for specific ages. 

Pro tip: Some events require registration, others are drop-in, so it’s always good to check the details.

More Services for Families

Yes, we have a lot going on for our Skokie families, more than we can share on these pages! Find even more on our Families page.