Your child doesn’t have to be a little bookworm to take advantage of the library. All around metro Detroit, public libraries are hubs of activity that offer family storytimes, arts and craft workshops, play time sessions and many other fun perks and activities for kids.
Plus, libraries lend way more than just books. Did you know that you can rent everything from movies, magazines and ebooks to museum tickets, toys and even laptops and tools? The best part? All these services are free!
Transform how you and your child think about the library by exploring all that these great local libraries have to offer. Keep in mind that just because your local library isn’t on this list doesn’t mean they don’t offer these services. Check their website or speak to a librarian on your next visit to learn more about events, special programming and borrowing materials for kids.
Best children’s libraries in Macomb County
Clinton-Macomb Public Library-Main Library
- Address: 40900 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Twp.
The children’s librarians at the main branch of Clinton-Macomb Public Library would be happy to help your child pick out a book using one of their kids reading lists or challenges, but books aren’t the only thing you can check out at this library. Take home a STEM to-go kit and explore math and science concepts at home, or snag a Michigan Activity Pass and get access to 450 nature and cultural destinations across the state.
Can’t make it to the library? Call Clinton-Macomb’s 24-hour story phone hotline at (586) 226-5006 to listen to a story read by a CMPL librarian.
Fraser Public Library
- Address: 16330 14 Mile Rd, Fraser
Fraser Public Library’s event calendar is packed with great activities for kids and families. Attend a Family STEM Night session, or visit every other Thursday morning for Pirate & Princess Story Time.
Kids who struggle with reading can practice their reading skills on Monday nights by sharing a story with a pup during a 15-minute PAWS to Read session. There are book discussions, book sales and take-home craft kits for kids and teens.
Harrison Township Public Library
Having an HTPL library card does more than just unlock amazing library services for you and your kiddos — it also unlocks discounts at local businesses, theaters, sporting events and more. We don’t think you need any more of a reason to visit this location, but in case you do, here’s some more great perks at the Harrison Township Public Library:
From preschool story time to baby playgroups and toddler dance parties, there’s many exciting activities for kids happening at the library. Plus, your kids will have the chance to read to dogs and play with baby chicks at upcoming events.
Using the library computers to browse the web is great, but is your connection a bit spotty once you get home? Check out a portable Wi-Fi hotspot and, while you’re at it, use it to download free music and movies using your library barcode.
Mount Clemens Public Library
- Address: 150 Cass Ave., Mount Clemens
The newly renovated Mount Clemens Public Library hosts Saturday storytimes, drawing classes, live music and more for kids. Easy reader books are organized by the style of the book, making it simple for your beginner reader to find their new favorite read.
Best children’s libraries in Oakland County
Commerce Township Community Library
With so many shelves filled with books, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start when looking for that perfect new read. Let the librarians at Commerce Township Community Library help! Simply fill out this form, and librarians will curate a book bundle filled with books of the topics and genres you request.
When you’re ready to pick up your book bundle, check their event calendar to see if there are any events happening that day. The library frequently hosts Lego club, Music & Movement, storytime and more.
Farmington Community Library: Farmington Hills
The more you look around the campus of the FCL Farmington Hills location, the more statues and art you’re likely to spot! The lower level is a dedicated space for kids in grade 5 and younger to play, read, study and explore. There’s a music nook, plenty of computers with kid-appropriate resources, a play kitchen and other fun interactive toys.
Southfield Public Library
- Address: 26300 Evergreen Road, Southfield
Full of natural light and impressive architecture, the Southfield Public Library is the ideal spot to curl up with a book. The children’s library looks like an enchanted castle made out of books, complete with high wooden ceiling beams, a dragon’s den, covered forest areas and — of course — plenty of hidden nooks and crannies where kids can let their imaginations soar.
Troy Public Library
- Address: 510 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy
At the end of each month, the Troy Public Library hosts a Storybook Trail in Raintree Park. Families can walk (and push strollers) down the paved path and enjoy the outdoors while stopping occasionally to read a page from the month’s featured story. There’s activity ideas to keep little ones entertained between pages, too.
If your child prefers to stay stationary when reading, stop by the library for a book club, crafting or storytime session.
West Bloomfield Township Public Library
The entrance to the Youth Services area at West Bloomfield Township Library is shaped like an adorable oversized clubhouse. Inside, kids can discover play areas that are filled with educational toys and games, and colorful activity rooms that host arts and crafts, reading with critters, move and groove tot sessions and more family fun activities.
Best children’s libraries in Wayne County
Detroit Public Library: Main Library
- Address: 5201 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Detroit has many branch locations that offer great library services for children and their families, but we chose to feature the Main Library for its breathtaking arched ceilings, gorgeous stained glass windows and historic artwork. If you’re looking for a grand library that feels like a movie set, this is the place for you.
Plus, you can check out Michigan Activity Passes, laptops, a book club in a bag and more!
Redford Township District Library
- Address: 25320 Six Mile Road, Redford Charter Twp.
The extensive catalog at the Redford Township District Library truly has something for everyone. The wide selection of picture and board books for early readers and chapter books for older kiddos is homed in a cozy area with a small children’s play space.
Redford Township District Library hosts some wonderful events for kids, including Chess Club, Storymakers for young authors, Lego Club, Pokemon Club and, of course, storytimes for all ages.
Best children’s libraries in Washtenaw County
Ann Arbor District Library: Downtown
- Address: 343 S. 5th Ave., Ann Arbor
The downtown branch of Ann Arbor District Library has a dedicated children’s area with plenty of books, iPads with kid-approved games and apps, and plenty of nooks and crannies to relax, read and learn.
Little kids will love attending Duplo Days where they can use their imaginations and build, and First Chapter Fridays, a live story reading event, is a great way for tweens to get a feel for a book before they commit to checking it out. See what other film, arts, gaming and social events are coming up at the downtown branch.
Westgate Branch | Ann Arbor District Library
- Address: 2503 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor
The Westgate branch of the Ann Arbor public library system isn’t just a great place to read and learn; it’s also the perfect place to play and eat! Kids of all ages will love playing with the giant Lite Brite, and little ones will love the quiet building block area that offers comfy seating for parents and a selection of toys for young children. There’s interactive wall art and board games, and Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, a cafe located on the first floor. Grab a coffee for an extra boost before you hit the stacks, or unwind with your new books over lunch.
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