Have you been dreaming of a kid-friendly destination with lots of space, few crowds and no entry fee? The answer may be right around the corner at your local library. Between the Boston Public Library system, the Old Colony Library network (South Shore), the Minuteman Library network (North and West suburbs) and several independent outfits, there are more than 75 great libraries in the area, and most have a dedicated children’s area that contain picture and chapter books, toys, and places to snuggle up with a good read. Here are a few standout libraries well worth driving out of town for, along with a sampling of special events they hold throughout the year.
1. Central Library in Copley Square
Where: 700 Boylston Street, Boston, MA
A renovation a few years back transformed the dingy, old second-floor kids’ space into a modern, colorful playland. Twice as large as the original, the new children’s space has “ToddleTown,” an early literacy area designed for kids three to five; StoryScape, where older kids can dress up like their favorite characters; and a tween space where kids often do homework after school or in the evenings.
Cool program: Tinker Tots—themed stories and activities that explore a science or engineering concept. It’s best for ages two to five.
2. Boston Athenæum Children’s Library
Boston Athenæum Children’s Library
Where: 10 ½ Beacon St, Boston, MA
This is a great spot for sibs: Your tot can park at one of the listening stations in the Chris Library Preschool Room, while older kids can chill in the adjacent C.A. Coolidge Young Readers room, which has an extensive collection of classics as well as new non-fiction. Become a member, and your whole clan can sign up for a complimentary “family tour” of the entire Athenaeum—fun ghost story included!—on Saturday afternoons.
Cool program: Legos, Chess and Puzzle Club—free weekly event melds brainy kids’ interests in one great Saturday afternoon hour. These programs are best for ages five to eight.
Main Library
Where: 449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA
Spanning the main library’s entire third floor, the children’s room has whimsical, Curious George-inspired décor and lots of natural light. It’s well populated, but in a good way—this is the sort of bustling place where you might just link up with a play date group or a new mom friend. A new mural inspired by the work of artist and children’s book author Ed Emberley is currently underway.
Cool program: Movies for Littles—unlike many library cinematic offerings, all of the movies are inspired by favorite picture books. All ages are welcome at these events.
Newton Free Library
Where: 330 Homer St, Newton, MA
Kids love curling up on the couches near the huge windows looking onto Commonwealth Avenue, and parents will love the especially extensive collection of children’s movies and music. A separate section for older kids includes quiet study spaces that are helpful at homework time.
Cool program: Read to a Dog at the Library!—kids in elementary school can sign up for 15-minutes slots to read to the library’s canine friend.
5. Robbins Library in Arlington
Robbins Library
Where: 700 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA
The first free children’s library in the nation also has what might be the friendliest circulation staff around. The spacious, lower-level children’s room has cozy lounge pillows and a great puppet collection. Some children’s programs are also held at the library’s nearby Fox Branch.
Cool program: Page Turners Club—kids in 4th and 5th grade read a new book every month, and then meet to bring the story to life with fun, sometimes wacky activities.
