Whether it’s summer in Atlanta with 100% humidity or you’re bundled up for one of those rare, bone-cold days during winter, the metro area libraries deliver on fun for kids. (And we admit, their adult programming like yoga and art is pretty fantastic, too.) Need ideas to keep the kids busy year-round and foster their love of reading? Read on for the best libraries in the Atlanta area for your little bookworms.
Where: 215 Sycamore Street Decatur, Decatur, GA
Just a stone’s throw from away from Atlanta, the Decatur Library boasts a lot more than just books. Families will love the library’s awesome programming ranging from the “Books and Babies” program (for littles as young as newborn) to music classes, toddler times and story times. An adorable children’s room with rotating kid-made artwork features puzzles, pint-sized tables and summer reading programs where young visitors can earn their way to a free book. There’s also a playground and community garden right next door!
Where: 269 Buckhead Ave NE, Atlanta, GA
The Ida Williams Library Buckhead, located on Buckhead Avenue off of Peachtree Street, opened its doors in 1942 and quickly became an icon of Atlanta’s literary scene. The library features thousands of books, DVDs and CDs with tons of family-friendly options, workshops and a coveted kiddie story time. Look at their ever-changing calendar of events for toddler and preschooler story times, classes for babies, and special seasonal celebrations.
Where: 1315 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA
Situated above the Museum of Design in midtown, the Peachtree Branch Library provides a gorgeous midtown stop for books and fun. Step into the kids’ area for coloring sheets, puzzles, magazines, and even some spots to cozy up and snuggle. Parents will find the usual story time activities for toddlers, preschoolers and caregivers along with different classes and clubs (like Kids Origami Club, where kids learn the secrets of this Japanese art!). Especially exciting, the library is just across from the High Museum of Art, making your midtown trek a little more colorful.
Where: 4290 Paces Ferry Rd SE, Atlanta, GA
Chatty toddlers and babies are always welcome at Vinings Library. This spot boasts story times, songs rhymes and other activities with parents or caregivers. Parents are also a focal point at the library—stick around after story times for the 30-minute parenting mingling sessions. Along with their circle times, this library also offers some amazing art programs for your pint-sized Picasso.
Where: 10 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, GA
The Alpharetta Branch really outdoes itself. The library’s calendar is packed (and we mean packed!) with things to do with your family. Join their ongoing yoga classes or family story times, and take advantage of the educational programming for the preschool and toddler set (think songs, rhymes and stories designed to support early literacy). The library also offers an innovative “Read with Echo” program for reluctant or anxious readers—little ones will enjoy the soothing company of a beloved trained therapy dog. Too. cute.
6. Toco Hill-Avis G. Williams Library
Where: 1282 McConnell Dr, Decatur, GA
Part of the Dekalb County Public Library system, the Toco Hills Avis G. Williams Library features a magical line-up of pint-sized fun. Take infants (up to 24 months) to “Building Blocks” for a story time designed to help develop language, motor and social skills. There’s also a circle time for tots and events with magician Ken Scott to dazzle young kids. Ask about special reading programs (especially in the summer months) to keep kids engaged and motivated to read.
Can we sneak this one on the list? The charming Little Free Libraries around Atlanta offer free books to passersby. Just stroll through your favorite residential neighborhood like Inman Park or Ansley Park and look for tiny libraries (they look like oversized wooden birdhouses stuffed with books). Open up the door, browse for a book to take home, and leave one the next time you spot a little free library. It’s a great opportunity to teach your kids the importance of sharing, and how something old for you is something new for someone else. Even better for parents, it’s a chance to get rid of some of your well-worn books and pass on the love to other eager readers!
