Library Story Times (220 Libraries with Kids’ Programs, by State)

📚 U.S. library guide

Library Story Times for Kids

A story time is a free early-literacy program where a librarian reads picture books aloud and leads songs, rhymes and fingerplays for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. It is one of the most popular things public libraries do — no library card or registration usually needed, just show up with your child. Here is how library story times work, what happens at one, and a verified, state-by-state list of libraries that run regular story-time programs.

A library story time (sometimes “story hour,” “lapsit” or “Mother Goose”) is a short, free program — usually 20–40 minutes — built around reading picture books aloud, plus songs, nursery rhymes, fingerplays and simple movement. Libraries often split them by age: baby/lapsit (0–18 months), toddler (18 months–3 years), preschool (3–5 years) and mixed-age family story time. They are designed to build the early-literacy skills — vocabulary, letter and sound awareness, print motivation — that get children ready to read, and to connect caregivers with each other. Most are drop-in and free, with no library card or sign-up required. Because exact days and times change with the season and by branch, the schedule below points you to each library so you can check its current calendar.

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How it works

  1. Find a library near you that runs story times. Use the state-by-state list below to find a participating library, then open its website or events calendar for the current schedule.
  2. Pick the right age group. Many libraries run separate baby, toddler and preschool sessions, plus a mixed-age family story time. Choose the one that fits your child — or start with family story time if you are unsure.
  3. Check the day, time and whether sign-up is needed. Most story times are weekly and drop-in, but some popular or special sessions ask you to register or pick up a free ticket. Confirm the current day and time on the library’s calendar, since schedules shift between the school year and summer.
  4. Just show up — a caregiver stays. Story time is free and open to the public; you do not usually need a library card to attend. A parent or caregiver stays with the child and joins in the songs and rhymes.
  5. Stay for play and browse afterward. Many libraries leave out toys, puzzles or a craft after story time so children can play and socialize — a good moment to pick up picture books to take home and keep reading.

Good to know

Story-time schedules change often — libraries pause or move sessions for holidays, staffing and the summer reading program, and swap between the school-year and summer calendars. This directory confirms which libraries run regular story times; always check the library’s own events calendar for the current day, time and any registration before you go.

Libraries with story times, by state

Every library below has this service verified on its official page. We add more as we confirm them — browse the full U.S. library directory for everything else.

Alabama · 27 libraries

Adelia McConnell Russell LibraryALEXANDER CITY, Alabama · +1 256-409-7001318 CHURCH STREETMamie's Place Children's Library: dedicated youth wing with story time and early-literacy programming →Carrollton Public LibraryCARROLLTON, Alabama · +1 205-367-2142225 COMMERCE AVENUEWednesday Story Hour at 10:30 a.m. for children — a recurring free program →Brent-Centreville Public LibraryCENTREVILLE, Alabama · +1 205-926-473620 LIBRARY STREETStory Time (children) →Chilton-Clanton Public LibraryCLANTON, Alabama · +1 205-755-1768100 FIRST AVENUEStorytime programs for children throughout the year →Columbiana Public LibraryColumbiana, Alabama · (205) 669-581250 Lester StreetWeekly storytime for toddlers and preschoolers every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 AM →Cullman County Public Library SystemCullman, Alabama · (256) 734-2720200 Clark Street NEActive children's programming: Tuesday storytimes, biweekly STEAM Club (coding, robotics) and Lego Club →Demopolis Public LibraryDemopolis, Alabama · (334) 289-1595211 East Washington StreetChildren's floor offering Story Time, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, and annual Summer Reading →DeKalb County Public LibraryFort Payne, Alabama · (256) 845-2671504 Grand Ave NWChildren's Story Hour every Thursday at 10:00 AM, plus annual Summer Reading Program and the DeKalb County Genealogical Society →Ruth Holliman Public LibraryGORDO, Alabama · +1 205-364-7148287 MAIN STREET SOUTHTuesday Story Time for preschool children (held year-round, except August) →William Bradford Huie Library of HartselleHARTSELLE, Alabama · +1 256-773-9880152 SPARKMAN STREET NWSummer Reading Program and Little Listeners Story Time for young readers →Lawrence County Public LibraryLAWRENCE, Alabama · +1 256-974-0883401 COLLEGE STREETChildren's Story Time every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. for infants to age 5 →Leeds Jane Culbreth LibraryLEEDS, Alabama · +1 205-699-59628104 PARKWAY DRIVETherapy dog visits and storytime events including princess read-alouds →Lineville City LibraryLINEVILLE, Alabama · +1 256-396-516260119 Highway 49Weekly Homeschool Hangout (Wednesdays 10am) and Saturday Storytime with crafts (11am) →Loxley Public LibraryLoxley, Alabama · (251) 964-56951001 E. Loxley AvenueYear-round weekly children's storytime plus a June–July Summer Reading Program →Millbrook Public LibraryMILLBROOK, Alabama · +1 334-285-66883650 GRANDVIEW ROADPreschool Story Hour every Thursday at 10 AM led by Children's Librarian Angela Dewberry →James Marcus Rosser Newton Public Library & MuseumNEWTON, Alabama · +1 334-299-3361209 OATES DRIVEStorytime programs and homework help for children and students →Piedmont Public LibraryPIEDMONT, Alabama · +1-256-447-3369106 North Main StreetStory Time (children) →W. Alan Summers Municipal LibraryPINSON, Alabama · +1205-680-38126757 OLD SPRINGVILLE ROADCommunity Seed Swap program and Storytime Kits for preschool families →Rainsville Public LibraryRAINSVILLE, Alabama · (256) 638-3311941 East Main StreetWeekly story time and crafts for ages 2–5, plus summer reading and Accelerated Reader support →Rogersville Public LibraryROGERSVILLE, Alabama · +1 256-247-015174 BANK STREETPre-School Storytime & children's programming →Satsuma Public LibrarySATSUMA, Alabama · +1251-679-07005466 Old Highway 43Active youth programs: 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, Story Time, and summer reading →Scottsboro Public LibrarySCOTTSBORO, Alabama · +1 256-574-43351002 SOUTH BROAD STREETChildren's storytime and youth programs →Southside Public LibrarySOUTHSIDE, Alabama · +1256-442-62172138 HIGHWAY 77Twice-monthly preschool story time and seasonal summer reading programs →Marjorie Younce Snook Public LibrarySUMMERDALE, Alabama · +1251-989-2011202 WEST BROADWAY STREETChildren's programs including story time and seasonal events →Weaver-Bolden Branch LibraryTUSCALOOSA, Alabama · (205) 758-82912522 LANIER AVEWeekly Storytime Stars (ages 3–6, Tuesdays 10–10:30 am) with books, music & movement →Troy Public LibraryTroy, Alabama · (334) 566-1314500 E Walnut StFairytale-themed Children's Department with puppet theater, fairytale carriage, and dedicated storytimes →H. Grady Bradshaw Chambers County LibraryVALLEY, Alabama · +1334-768-21613419 20TH AVENUEYear-round programs for all ages: summer reading, children's storytimes, teen events, and adult programs →

Alaska · 5 libraries

Dillingham Public LibraryDILLINGHAM, Alaska · (907) 842-5610141 Main StreetFriday Storytime at 10:30 a.m. weekly; summer reading program for youth →Chugiak-Eagle River LibraryEAGLE RIVER, Alaska · (907) 343-153012001 Business Blvd #176Children's area with picture books, early-reader collections, and storytime programming →Tri-Valley Community LibraryHEALY, Alaska · +1-907-683-2507400 SUNTRANA STREETYear-round programs including Book Club, Story Hour, Writing Group, and Summer Reading →Trapper Creek Public LibraryTRAPPER CREEK, Alaska · +1-907-861-76508901 EAST DEVONSHIRE DRIVEToddler Time preschool storytime every Thursday from September through May, 11am–noon →Wasilla Public LibraryWasilla, Alaska · (907) 376-5913500 N Crusey StreetWeekly storytimes for three age groups: Baby (birth–2), Toddler (2–4), and Preschool (3–6) →

Arizona · 6 libraries

Benson Public LibraryBenson, Arizona · (520) 586-9535300 S. Huachuca StreetYear-round programs including weekly Wednesday Storytime & Crafts, Coloring Club, Dungeons & Dragons Club, and a monthly Adult Speaker Series →Black Canyon City Community LibraryBlack Canyon City, Arizona · (623) 374-586634701 S. Old Black Canyon HighwayWeekly Tuesday Tales storytime (Tuesdays 10:00–10:30 AM) for preschoolers featuring books, songs, and a craft activity →Chino Valley Public LibraryChino Valley, Arizona · (928) 636-26871020 W Palomino RoadDedicated Children's Library with its own phone line (928-636-9115) and programming — weekly storytimes indoors Tuesdays and outdoors in Memory Park on Fridays →Eloy Santa Cruz LibraryEloy, Arizona · (520) 466-38141000 N Main StreetChildren's story time →Community Library SedonaSedona, Arizona · (928) 282-77143250 White Bear Road600+ annual programs for all ages — children's STEM storytimes, teen workshops, adult book clubs, writing workshops, chess club, sewing guild, and language groups →Wickenburg Public Library & Learning CenterWICKENBURG, Arizona · (928) 684-2665164 E Apache StChildren's storytimes and youth services →

Arkansas · 3 libraries

Washington County Library SystemFayetteville, Arkansas · (479) 442-62531080 W. Clydesdale DriveYouth programming: preschool storytime and children's activities at branch locations →Craighead County Jonesboro Public LibraryJonesboro, Arkansas · (870) 935-5133315 West Oak Avenue2022 Children's Library expansion added ~2,000 sq ft of new storytime and early-learning space →Columbia County LibraryMagnolia, Arkansas · (870) 234-19912057 N Jackson StChildren's services: baby/toddler, preschool, home-school & after-school story times →

California · 12 libraries

Fremont Main LibraryFREMONT, California · (510) 745-14002400 Stevenson BlvdProgramming includes Homework Help Center, Sign Language Sing-A-Long Storytime, and English Buddies for adults →Grass Valley LibraryGrass Valley, California · (530) 273-4117207 Mill StreetBilingual programs including Spanish-English Family Storytime on the second Saturday each month and weekly English-language conversation classes for all levels →Lincoln Heights Branch LibraryLos Angeles, California · (323) 226-16922530 Workman StreetFree Adult Literacy Walk-in Tutoring every Monday 1:00–3:00 pm, plus Bilingual Storytime (Hora de Cuentos Bilingüe) and English Conversation Classes for adults →Studio City Branch LibraryLos Angeles, California · (818) 755-787312511 Moorpark StreetSTAR volunteer storytimes offer one-on-one reading sessions for children; after three visits, kids take home a free book →Mission Hills-Hillcrest/Harley & Bessie Knox LibrarySan Diego, California · (619) 692-4910215 W. Washington StreetChildren's wing with themed storytime space and dedicated computer lab →North Park LibrarySan Diego, California · (619) 533-39723795 31st StreetChildren and family area with storytimes and STEM activities →Point Loma/Hervey LibrarySan Diego, California · (619) 531-15393701 Voltaire StreetLargest children's library space in the City of San Diego — a sailboat reading room with portholes, mast and sails, surfboard-shaped desks, an art area, and a Story Time Zone →Anza Branch LibrarySan Francisco, California · (415) 355-5717550 37th AvenueTai Chi Wednesdays (1:30–3 pm), Family Storytime Thursdays (10:30 am), and a Knitting Circle Fridays (3–5 pm) round out year-round community programming →Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial BranchSan Francisco, California · (415) 355-56161 Jose Sarria CourtYouth storytimes (babies and toddlers) →Mission Branch LibrarySan Francisco, California · (415) 355-28001234 Valencia StreetChildren's area with storytimes, discovery labs, and play times →Presidio BranchSan Francisco, California · (415) 355-28803150 Sacramento StreetHosts weekly Beginner and Advanced Tai Chi classes and Toddler Storytime, plus small Chinese and Russian language collections →East San José Carnegie Branch LibrarySan Jose, California · (408) 808-30751102 E Santa Clara StreetFamily Learning / early childhood storytime with Stay-and-Play →

Colorado · 8 libraries

Cortez Public LibraryCortez, Colorado · (970) 565-8117202 N Park StreetDedicated children's storytime room →Central Library — Denver Public LibraryDenver, Colorado · (720) 865-111110 W. Fourteenth Ave. PkwyChildren's Library with storytimes and youth collections →Eloise May LibraryDenver, Colorado · (303) 542-72791471 South Parker RoadDedicated children's area, expanded in 2017–2018, with storytimes and youth programming →Park Hill Branch LibraryDenver, Colorado · (720) 865-02504705 Montview BlvdBaby Storytime and All Ages Storytime programs in the children's area; community meeting/study rooms available →Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales Branch LibraryDenver, Colorado · (720) 865-23701498 N. Irving Street"Library as Greenhouse" architecture by Studiotrope: three-story plenum wall, passive displacement ventilation, second-floor interior courtyard, and Storytime Tower with art installation "Clerestory" →Sarah Platt Decker Branch LibraryDenver, Colorado · (720) 865-02201501 S. Logan St.Wednesday Family Storytime (10:30 AM) and Toddler Storytime in the branch's children's room →Heginbotham LibraryHolyoke, Colorado · (970) 854-2597539 S. Baxter AveBilingual services: Spanish-language adult, teen, and children's collections and bilingual Storytime serve the area's Latino community →Lake County Public LibraryLeadville, Colorado · (719) 486-05691115 Harrison AvenueBilingual services for Leadville's 45%-Hispanic community: Spanish-language collections, bilingual storytimes, Informe Académico database, and a Spanish-language WhatsApp updates group →

Florida · 6 libraries

Altamonte Springs City LibraryAltamonte Springs, Florida · (407) 571-8830281 Maitland AvenueChildren's Library with Sensory Play Area and Storytime space →Fort Myers Beach Public LibraryFort Myers Beach, Florida · (239) 765-81622755 Estero BoulevardChildren's Library with Storytime area →Shenandoah Branch LibraryMiami, Florida · (305) 250-46882111 SW 19th StreetRobust bilingual (English/Spanish) programming including 'La Hora de los Cuentos' storytimes and Spanish-language book clubs →Oldsmar Public LibraryOldsmar, Florida · (813) 749-1178400 St. Petersburg Drive EastToddler and preschool storytimes every week plus active teen and adult programming calendar →Palm Springs Public LibraryPalm Springs, Florida · 561-965-2204217 Cypress LaneChildren's area & bilingual storytimes →Sanibel Public LibrarySanibel, Florida · (239) 472-2483770 Dunlop RoadChildren's Library with dedicated children's programming and storytimes →

Georgia · 5 libraries

Buckhead LibraryAtlanta, Georgia · (404) 613-7350269 Buckhead Avenue NETeen center and children's story time room →Evelyn G. Lowery Library at CascadeAtlanta, Georgia · (404) 613-70003665 Cascade Road SWFamily programming including storytimes, yoga, craft workshops and grief support in a welcoming neighborhood setting →Joan P. Garner Library at Ponce De LeonAtlanta, Georgia · (404) 613-7310980 Ponce de Leon Avenue NEDiverse year-round programming: yoga, teen D&D, toddler storytimes, book clubs, LGBTQ events and seasonal craft workshops →Peachtree Branch LibraryAtlanta, Georgia · (404) 613-99901315 Peachtree Street NEActive programming calendar: family storytimes, wellness classes, Mahjong Wednesdays, and playgroups →Rosa M. Tarbutton Memorial LibrarySandersville, Georgia · (478) 552-7466314 S. Harris StreetChildren's computers with Magic Desktop plus preschool and school-age storytimes on Tuesdays →

Guam · 1 library

Nieves M. Flores Memorial LibraryHagatna, Guam · (671) 475-4751254 Martyr StreetSaturday Story Hour and 4-Paws & a Tale dog-reading program among the year-round children's programs offered at this main branch →

Hawaii · 4 libraries

Honoka'a Public LibraryHonokaa, Hawaii · (808) 775-888145-3380 Mamane Street, Building 3Active Keiki Storytime every Tuesday morning for families with children ages 0-5 →Mānoa Public LibraryHonolulu, Hawaii · (808) 988-04592716 Woodlawn DriveSeparate programming room for storytimes, movies & crafts →Kailua Public LibraryKailua, Hawaii · (808) 266-9911239 Kuʻulei RoadChildren's storytime and programming area →Pāhoa Public and School LibraryPahoa, Hawaii · (808) 965-217115-3070 Pahoa-Kalapana Road8 public computers, Friends' book store, free Wi-Fi, and Family Story Time plus Babies Books & Blankets for young children →

Idaho · 5 libraries

Ada Community Library, Victory BranchBoise, Idaho · (208) 362-018110664 West Victory RoadActive program calendar: Baby Rhyme Time, bilingual storytimes, STEAM, Teen Meetup, D&D nights, Yarnia crafting →Bovill Community LibraryBovill, Idaho · (208) 826-3451310 1st AvenueChildren's storytime programming (seasonal) →Deary Community LibraryDeary, Idaho · (208) 877-1664304 2nd AvenueChildren's storytime programming (seasonal) →Moscow Public LibraryMoscow, Idaho · (208) 882-3925110 S Jefferson StreetYouth storytimes: Babes & Books and Tots and Tales →Troy Community LibraryTroy, Idaho · (208) 835-4311402 S. Main StreetThursday storytimes run October through April for children with caregivers →

Illinois · 2 libraries

Danville Public LibraryDanville, Illinois · (217) 477-5220319 North Vermilion StreetSecond-floor teen space open weekday afternoons, plus weekly storytimes, writing and craft clubs, and a Starbooks used bookstore →Marion Carnegie LibraryMarion, Illinois · (618) 993-5935206 S. Market StreetPrograms for all ages: Book Club, Story Hour, Teen Craft, StoryWalk, Project Next Generation, and Lawyer in the Library consultations →

Iowa · 2 libraries

Lost Nation Public LibraryLost Nation, Iowa · (563) 678-2114410 Main StreetStorytime and youth programming →Sigourney Public LibrarySigourney, Iowa · (641) 622-2890720 E. Jackson StreetChildren's storytimes and literacy programs →

Kansas · 5 libraries

Coffey County Library — Burlington BranchBurlington, Kansas · (620) 364-5333410 Juniatta StreetOutreach: storytimes to daycares, books to jail and nursing homes →Kansas City, Kansas Public Library — Main LibraryKansas City, Kansas · (913) 295-8250625 Minnesota AvenueYouth literacy programs and storytimes →Kensington Community School LibraryKensington, Kansas · (785) 476-2219203 South Jackson StreetWeekly story hour for USD 110 kindergarten through 3rd graders →Wichita County LibraryLeoti, Kansas · (620) 375-4322208 South FourthSummer Library Program and Thursday Story Time for children →Palco Public LibraryPalco, Kansas · 785-737-4286208 Main StreetEarly literacy storytimes and Summer Library Program →

Kentucky · 2 libraries

Jackson County Public LibraryMcKee, Kentucky · (606) 287-8113338 Main StreetLily Pad storytime every Friday for children ages 1–5, supporting early literacy in a rural community →Clark County Public LibraryWinchester, Kentucky · (859) 744-5661370 South Burns AvenueNew bookmobile unveiled May 3, 2026 — first in ~15 years — bringing story times and books to rural Clark County residents unable to reach 370 South Burns Avenue →

Louisiana · 5 libraries

Belle Chasse Branch LibraryBelle Chasse, Louisiana · (504) 394-35708442 Highway 2335 community programs per year spanning storytimes, STEM, digital literacy, job skills, and cultural events →Algiers Regional LibraryNew Orleans, Louisiana · (504) 596-26413014 Holiday DriveChildren's storytimes and youth programming →Alvar LibraryNew Orleans, Louisiana · (504) 596-2667913 Alvar StreetChildren's storytimes and youth programming →Nix LibraryNew Orleans, Louisiana · (504) 596-26301401 S. Carrollton AvenueYouth and children's storytimes and programming →Norman Mayer LibraryNew Orleans, Louisiana · (504) 596-31003001 Gentilly BoulevardChildren's storytimes and youth programming →

Maine · 3 libraries

Blue Hill Public LibraryBlue Hill, Maine · (207) 374-55155 Parker Point RoadWeekly community programs: chess evenings, knitting group, French conversation, and Spanish-language children's storytime →Hubbard Free LibraryHallowell, Maine · (207) 622-6582115 Second StreetWeekly in-person story-and-craft time for children every Wednesday at 10:30am and Saturday virtual storytime via Facebook →Portland Public LibraryPortland, Maine · (207) 871-17005 Monument SquareChildren's Library with story times, early-literacy programs and a Family Remote Workspace (stroller parking, family restrooms and a lactation pod) →

Maryland · 4 libraries

Light Street BranchBaltimore, Maryland · (410) 396-10961251 Light StreetDedicated children's and teen sections with storytimes, crafts, and youth programming →Dorchester County Public LibraryCambridge, Maryland · (410) 228-7331303 Gay StreetYouth services and storytime programs →Noyes Library for Young Children (Kensington)Kensington, Maryland · (240) 773-957010237 Carroll PlaceChildren's storytimes, lap-sit programs, and early literacy events (at Kensington Park Library during renovation) →Long Branch LibrarySilver Spring, Maryland · 240-777-09108800 Garland AvenueFree English and French conversation clubs, weekly baby and preschool storytimes, and a World Cultures Program Series celebrating the diverse backgrounds of Long Branch's neighborhood →

Michigan · 9 libraries

Allendale Township LibraryAllendale, Michigan · (616) 895-41786175 Library Lane1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program and weekly storytimes for young children →Schultz-Holmes District LibraryBlissfield, Michigan · (517) 486-2858407 South Lane StreetChildren's storytime and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program →Escanaba Public LibraryEscanaba, Michigan · (906) 789-7323400 Ludington StreetYear-round programs including Tech Tuesdays, summer reading, and Delta County Family Coalition storytimes →Holly Township LibraryHolly, Michigan · (248) 634-17541116 North Saginaw StreetStorytime, homeschool programs, and habitat hikes for children and families →Howell Carnegie District LibraryHowell, Michigan · (517) 546-0720314 West Grand River AvenueOver 784 programs per year ranging from toddler storytimes and teen events to genealogy research and adult job-search workshops →Georgetown Township Public LibraryJenison, Michigan · (616) 457-96201525 Baldwin StreetHead of Youth Services providing children's programming, storytimes, and teen activities throughout the year →Southgate Veterans Memorial LibrarySouthgate, Michigan · (734) 258-300214680 Dix-Toledo RoadCurrent 21,000-sq-ft building opened 1997 after a $1.6 million voter-approved bond, adding two large meeting rooms, five study rooms, and a children's storytime room →Waterford Township Public LibraryWaterford, Michigan · (248) 674-48315168 Civic Center DriveChildren's Room with youth programs and storytimes →White Lake Township LibraryWhite Lake, Michigan · (248) 698-494211005 Elizabeth Lake Rd.Library of Things: STEAM kits, seed library, storytime backpacks →

Minnesota · 3 libraries

Mabel Public LibraryMabel, Minnesota · (507) 493-5336110 East Newburg AvenueChildren's Story Hour programming →Preston Public LibraryPreston, Minnesota · (507) 765-4511101 St. Paul Street NWBiweekly storytime (2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 11 am) →Willmar Public LibraryWillmar, Minnesota · (320) 235-3162410 5th Street SWMultilingual collection in Spanish, Somali, and other languages; LOTE4Kids multilingual storytime programming →

Mississippi · 3 libraries

Northeast Regional Library — CorinthCorinth, Mississippi · (662) 287-24411023 North Fillmore StreetStory Time and youth programming →Harriette Person Memorial LibraryPort Gibson, Mississippi · (601) 437-5202606 Market StreetStorytime and children's programming →Bryan Public LibraryWest Point, Mississippi · (662) 494-4872436 Commerce StreetYouth and children's services staffed by dedicated librarians for storytime, reading support, and youth programming →

Missouri · 6 libraries

Appleton City Public LibraryAPPLETON CITY, Missouri · +1 660-476-5513105 W FOURTH STChildren's Story Hour every Monday at 11:00 AM for ages 5 and under →Dallas County LibraryBuffalo, Missouri · (417) 345-2647219 West Main StreetChildren's Story Time programming →Farmington Public LibraryFarmington, Missouri · (573) 756-5779101 North A StreetRoughly 20 free programs per month for children, teens, and adults — including Pre-K storytime Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. →Perryville Branch — Riverside Regional LibraryPerryville, Missouri · (573) 547-6508800 City Park Dr Ste AChildren's storytimes (ages 0–6) and teen programs (ages 13–17) →Rock Hill Public LibraryRock Hill, Missouri · (314) 962-47239811 Manchester RoadMLC StoryWalk panels placed on outdoor park trails bring storytime into the community →West Plains Public LibraryWest Plains, Missouri · (417) 256-4775750 W Broadway StYear-round programming: weekly Story Time, Chess Club (ages 6–11), adult Book Club, summer reading & monthly movie nights →

Montana · 2 libraries

Belgrade Community LibraryBelgrade, Montana · (406) 388-4346205 East Main StreetActive youth programs including Preschool Storytime and STEAM Art Club for children and teens →North Valley Public LibraryStevensville, Montana · (406) 777-5061208 Main StLibrary of Things — tools, storytime kits, wellness kits and other non-book items →

Nebraska · 2 libraries

Gering Public LibraryGering, Nebraska · (308) 436-74331055 P StreetYear-round youth storytimes plus after-school programs (Sep–May) and a summer reading program for children and adults →Lied Imperial Public LibraryImperial, Nebraska · (308) 882-4754703 BroadwayWeekly Friday Story Hour (ages 3–6), Dolly Parton's Imagination Library for children birth–5, and summer Lawn Chair Theatre outdoor movies →

Nevada · 3 libraries

Douglas County Public LibraryMinden, Nevada · (775) 782-98411625 Library LaneActive STEM workshops, 3D printing classes, story times, Pokémon events, and free retirement-planning seminars →Humboldt County LibraryWinnemucca, Nevada · (775) 623-638885 E 5th StreetLibrary of Things: Chromebooks (in-library use), Wi-Fi hotspots, e-readers, wellness kits, storytime kits →Lyon County Library — Yerington BranchYerington, Nevada · (775) 463-664520 Nevin WayChildren's story time at the Central Branch →

New Hampshire · 1 library

Elkins Public LibraryCanterbury, New Hampshire · (603) 783-43869 Center RoadSeed Library for gardening patrons, plus a children's wing with weekly Story Time and Tunes Tales & Tumbles →

New Jersey · 9 libraries

Bayonne Free Public LibraryBayonne, New Jersey · (201) 858-6971697 Avenue CChildren's Room with youth programming and storytimes →Belleville Public LibraryBelleville, New Jersey · (973) 450-3434221 Washington AvenueActive multilingual programming: ESL classes, Spanish-language storytimes and Hispanic Heritage Month events →Dover Free Public LibraryDover, New Jersey · (973) 366-017232 E. Clinton StreetBilingual storytime (English/Spanish) for children ages 2–5 with caregivers →Louis Bay 2nd Library & Community CenterHawthorne, New Jersey · (973) 427-5745345 Lafayette AvenueDedicated Children's Wing for youth programming, storytimes and early literacy →Irvington Public LibraryIrvington, New JerseyCivic SquareActive children's programming: Babies & Toddlers Storytime, Preschool Storytime, Arts & Crafts and Game Day every week →Millville Public LibraryMillville, New Jersey · (856) 825-7087210 Buck StreetChildren and teen programs: Storytime, LEGO Club, Dungeons & Dragons and Nutritional Snack Kits →North Brunswick Public LibraryNorth Brunswick, New Jersey · (732) 246-3545880 Hermann RoadTherapy Dog reading sessions for children, plus StoryPlay, craft clubs and family storytimes →Randolph Township Free Public LibraryRandolph, New Jersey · (973) 895-355628 Calais RoadOver 440 programs a year — storytimes, teen workshops, adult cultural events and job-skills training →Tinton Falls Public LibraryTinton Falls, New Jersey · (732) 389-2594664 Tinton AvenueChildren's storytime and youth programming →

New Mexico · 4 libraries

Artesia Public LibraryArtesia, New Mexico · (575) 746-4252205 W. Quay AvenueExceptionally active community calendar for a city of 12,000 — weekly Storytime, STEM, D&D, Teen Tuesday and Mother Goose programs running year-round →Hobbs Public LibraryHobbs, New Mexico · (575) 397-9328509 North Shipp StreetStory Hour programming for children →Placitas Community LibraryPlacitas, New Mexico · (505) 867-3355453 NM-165Motto: "A Place for Everyone / Una Placita Para Todos" — programs include storytimes, poetry, film, financial literacy and garden events →Roswell Public LibraryRoswell, New Mexico · (575) 622-7101301 N. Pennsylvania AvenueChildren's learning area with story times →

New York · 12 libraries

Adams Street LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 718-230-22649 ADAMS STREETChildren's collections and storytimes →Bay Ridge LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 718-748-57097223 RIDGE BOULEVARDChildren's collections and storytimes →Bedford LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 718-623-2134496 FRANKLIN AVENUEChildren's collections and storytimes →Carroll Gardens Pop-Up LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 929-276-5768250 Baltic StreetCommunity programs and storytimes →Clinton Hill LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 718-398-8713380 WASHINGTON AVENUEChildren's programming and story time →Cortelyou LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 718-693-77631305 CORTELYOU ROADChildren's programming and story time →Cypress Hills LibraryBROOKLYN, New York · 718-277-60041197 SUTTER AVENUEChildren's programming and story time →Macon LibraryBrooklyn, New York · (718) 573-5606361 Lewis AvenueRegular neighborhood storytime programs for children birth to age 5, plus teen programming and after-school study space with public computers →Park Slope LibraryBrooklyn, New York · (718) 832-1853431 6th AvenueBilingual storytimes and a dedicated children's area with regular programming for babies, toddlers and school-age kids →Mulberry Street LibraryNew York, New York · (212) 966-342410 Jersey StreetActive community room used for children's storytimes, English-language classes, after-school programs and cultural events throughout the year →Peninsula LibraryQueens, New York · (718) 634-111092-25 Rockaway Beach BoulevardChildren's and family programming including storytimes, STEAM activities, arts & crafts, LEGO and Dungeons & Dragons →Ottendorfer Librarynew-york, New York · (212) 674-0947135 Second AvenueChildren's floor with dedicated story-hour room (six weekly story times) →

North Carolina · 1 library

Wake Forest Community LibraryWake Forest, North Carolina · (919) 554-8498400 East Holding AvenueStorytimes and community programming for children and families →

North Dakota · 5 libraries

Dickinson Area Public LibraryDickinson, North Dakota · (701) 456-7700139 3rd Street WestActive programming calendar: storytimes (ages 0–5), youth crafts, teen programs, adult craft club, family movies, and Pokemon & LEGO clubs →Ellendale Public LibraryEllendale, North Dakota · (701) 349-385267 1st Avenue SouthSummer Story Hour program meets weekly, and the library holds free book giveaways from its fiction, non-fiction, and children's sections →Kindred Public LibraryKindred, North Dakota · (701) 428-3456330 Elm StreetMonthly "Breakfast with a Book" discussion, children's "Picture This" storytime, and "Crafting Connections" craft group →Cavalier County LibraryLangdon, North Dakota · (701) 256-5353600 5th AvenueThursday preschool storytime (ages 2½ to pre-K) held weekly during the school year →Ward County Public LibraryMinot, North Dakota · (701) 852-5388225 3rd St SEMonthly community events — Adult Crafty Crew, Thursday Story Time for ages 1+, STEAM workshops, and seasonal programs — all free →

Oklahoma · 1 library

Southern Oklahoma Library System — Champion Public LibraryArdmore, Oklahoma · (580) 223-3164601 Railway ExpressRobust youth programs: Wiggle Worms storytime, D&D Game Night, teen Anime & Manga Book Club →

Oregon · 10 libraries

Forest Grove City LibraryForest Grove, Oregon · (503) 992-32472114 Pacific AvePreschool Storytime, ESL classes, and Library of Things borrowing (board games, 3D objects) available to cardholders →Happy Valley LibraryHappy Valley, Oregon · (503) 783-345613793 SE Sieben Park WayYouth services with regular storytimes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers →Jefferson County Library DistrictMadras, Oregon · (541) 475-3351241 Se 7Th StBilingual storytimes in English and Spanish serving Jefferson County's diverse community →Pendleton Public LibraryPendleton, Oregon · (541) 966-0380502 Sw Dorion AveRead Ride Run mobile storytime at Grecian Heights Park every Wednesday morning at 9am — stories, rhymes, and outdoor play combined →Holgate LibraryPortland, Oregon · (503) 988-51237905 SE Holgate BlvdLarge children's play and learning space, multiple flexible community rooms, bilingual storytimes and solar energy features →Midland Library — Multnomah County LibraryPortland, Oregon · (503) 988-5123805 SE 122nd AvenuePrograms include ESL classes, sewing groups, guitar and ukulele lessons, and children's Tiny Tots storytimes →Northwest LibraryPortland, Oregon · (503) 988-51232030 NW Pettygrove StLaptop lending kiosk, Lucky Day collection, LGBTQ+ family programming and wide range of weekly storytimes →St. Johns Library — Multnomah County LibraryPortland, Oregon · (503) 988-51237510 N Charleston AvenueBilingual (Spanish/English) family storytime and Black Family Storytime among recurring weekly programs →Woodstock LibraryPortland, Oregon · (503) 988-51236008 SE 49th AvenueChinese and Spanish language collections plus bilingual Cantonese/English storytime (華語講故事時間) serving the neighborhood's multilingual community →Stayton Public LibraryStayton, Oregon · (503) 769-3313515 North First AvenueActive year-round programming: weekly Family Storytime and Toddler Time, STEAM Days, Fiber Arts Connection, summer reading, and after-hours adult events →

Pennsylvania · 5 libraries

Charles Santore LibraryPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania · (215) 686-1766932 South 7th StreetChildren's room with dedicated storytime programming →David Cohen Ogontz LibraryPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania · (215) 685-35666017 Ogontz AvenueRegular programming for all ages including Baby/Toddler Storytime & Toddler Construction Club (Thursdays), Homeschooler Hangout (Tuesdays) and Kids & Teens Chess Club (Tuesdays) →Ramonita G. de Rodriguez LibraryPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania · (215) 686-1768600 West Girard AvenueWeekly Toddler Storytime every Friday at 11am, plus Junk Journal Workshops for ages 5–18 and Spin & Go free laundry for unhoused neighbors every Wednesday →Widener LibraryPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania · (215) 685-97992808 West Lehigh AvenueChildren's storytime with Ms. Adrianna (Fridays 11 a.m., ages 3–5) →West End Branch — Carnegie Library of PittsburghPittsburgh, Pennsylvania · (412) 921-171747 Wabash StreetChildren's storytime and all-ages programming →

Puerto Rico · 2 libraries

Mayagüez Children's LibraryMayagüez, Puerto Rico · (787) 834-1745Calle Santiago Méndez VigoStorytime and read-aloud sessions for toddlers and early readers →San Juan Community LibrarySan Juan, Puerto Rico · (787) 789-46002105 Calle TopacioActive STEAM workshop series, children's storytime and annual Back to School Book Fest →

South Carolina · 2 libraries

Richland Library — MainColumbia, South Carolina · (803) 799-90841431 Assembly StreetChildren's Room — storytimes, puppet stage, Montessori manipulatives, Kimi Maeda Shadow Play Tunnel (Garden Level, 803-929-3434) →Marion County LibraryMarion, South Carolina · (843) 423-8300101 East Court StreetFamily literacy programming year-round — storytimes, summer reading, and teen events →

South Dakota · 2 libraries

Viborg Public LibraryViborg, South Dakota · (605) 326-5481114 North Main StreetMonthly preschool storytime on Wednesdays during the school year builds early literacy for the youngest community members →Watertown Regional LibraryWatertown, South Dakota · (605) 882-6220160 6th Street NEChildren's storytimes and summer reading →

Tennessee · 2 libraries

Richland Park Branch LibraryNashville, Tennessee · (615) 862-58704711 Charlotte AveActive programming: French conversation groups, yoga, book clubs and preschool story time →King Family LibrarySevierville, Tennessee · (865) 453-3532408 High StreetMore than 400 programs a year for all ages, from children's storytime to adult literacy and cultural events →

Texas · 7 libraries

Little Walnut Creek BranchAustin, Texas · (512) 974-9860835 W. Rundberg LaneServes Council District 4 — one of Austin's most linguistically diverse corridors — with bilingual programming including Talk Time / Hora de práctica (adult language-exchange, Monday evenings) and Spa →Ruiz BranchAustin, Texas · (512) 974-75001600 Grove BoulevardBilingual programming hub for Council District 3: ESL/Clase de Inglés classes (morning and evening), Practiquemos Español adult conversation group, and Spanish-language storytime for families →University Hills BranchAustin, Texas · (512) 974-99404721 Loyola LaneRegular bilingual programming including Cuentos con Señora Lili (Spanish storytime) for children ages 0–10 →Prairie Creek Branch LibraryDallas, Texas · (214) 671-04109609 Lake June RoadBilingual Storytime for children and families →McAllen Public LibraryMcAllen, Texas · (956) 681-30004001 N. 23rd StreetAnnual South Texas International Book Festival (STIBF) each October — a free, all-ages event with author sessions, bilingual storytimes, and book giveaways for children and teens →Harrington LibraryPlano, Texas · (972) 941-71751501 18th StreetPrograms range from Breathe & Read Storytime for ages 3–5 to the Youth Entrepreneurship Academy for grades 9–12 — all held in the renovated program rooms →The Tobin Library at OakwellSan Antonio, Texas · (210) 207-90404134 Harry WurzbachStorytime and youth programming for families →

U.S. Virgin Islands · 1 library

Elaine Ione Sprauve Public LibraryCruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands · (340) 776-6359Boynes StreetFree Saturday Storytime in the Children's Room at 11 a.m. →

Utah · 4 libraries

Whitmore LibraryCottonwood Heights, Utah · (801) 943-46362197 E Fort Union BlvdRobust programming for all ages including coding classes (Fiero Code), adult lectures, children's storytimes, and summer reading →Highland City LibraryHighland, Utah · (801) 772-45295400 W Civic Center Dr, Suite 2Story times four days per week plus after-school programs three days per week →Utah County BookmobileMapleton, Utah · (801) 489-4833125 West 400 NorthStory Time at Mapleton HQ — Tuesdays 2:00–3:00 p.m. for children age 6 and younger →Holladay LibrarySalt Lake City, Utah · (801) 943-46362150 East Murray-Holladay RoadActive programs calendar: Storytime, Teen Time, Book Club, Chess Club, Knitting, Dungeons & Dragons, and Yoga classes →

Vermont · 1 library

Essex Free LibraryEssex Junction, Vermont · (802) 879-03131 Browns River RoadStorytimes and play groups for young children →

Virginia · 4 libraries

James L. Hamner Public LibraryAmelia Court House, Virginia · (804) 561-455916351 Dunn StAnnual Summer Reading Challenge, after-school art studio for teens, chair yoga for adults, and storytime for children →Caroline County Library — Bowling Green BranchBowling Green, Virginia · (804) 633-545517202 Richmond TurnpikeDial a Story telephone storytime service →Blackwater Regional Library — Smithfield BranchSmithfield, Virginia · (757) 357-2264255 James StreetActive community program calendar: Little Explorers Storytime, Full STEAM Ahead, Mahjong, Musical Movie Mondays, and BRL Threads crafting →East Smithfield Public LibrarySmithfield, Virginia · (401) 231-515050 Esmond StreetChildren's Room with storytimes and STEAM programs →

Washington · 2 libraries

Bellingham Public Library – Fairhaven BranchBellingham, Washington · (360) 778-71881117 12th StreetWeekly storytimes taught by childhood education specialists — part of 19 storytimes offered across the Bellingham Public Library system →Port Townsend Public LibraryPort Townsend, Washington · (360) 385-31811220 Lawrence StreetPrograms include weekly storytimes, 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, Fiber Arts Night, Book Lovers' Cafe, and Community Read →

West Virginia · 1 library

Vienna Public LibraryVienna, West Virginia · (304) 295-77712300 River RoadYear-round programming: story times, children's and teen book clubs, craft classes, and summer reading →

Wisconsin · 6 libraries

Cambridge Community LibraryCambridge, Wisconsin · (608) 423-3900101 Spring Water AlleyActive makerspace, regular storytime, book club, Friday Flick film screenings, and teen craft events →Hartland Public LibraryHartland, Wisconsin · (262) 367-3350110 E. Park Ave.Approximately 365 programs per year — storytime for toddlers through job-search workshops for adults →Kimberly Public LibraryKimberly, Wisconsin · (920) 788-7515515 W. Kimberly Ave.Over 227 programs a year ranging from Baby Story Time to job-search workshops for adults →Middleton Public LibraryMiddleton, Wisconsin · (608) 831-55647425 Hubbard Ave.Children's story time and youth programming →Community LibrarySalem, Wisconsin · (262) 843-334824615 89Th St.Programs for all ages: storytime, book clubs, summer reading, and homeschool resources →Wauwatosa Public LibraryWauwatosa, Wisconsin · (414) 471-84847635 W. North Ave.Kids' 3D printer training, LEGO Club, storytimes, and a robust children's calendar →

Wyoming · 5 libraries

Big Horn County LibraryBasin, Wyoming · (307) 568-2388430 West C StreetFriday storytimes for preschool (10:30am) and elementary-aged children (11:30am) — crafts and stories every week →Sweetwater County Library — Green RiverGreen River, Wyoming · (307) 875-3615300 North 1st EastChildren's storytimes and toddler programs →Niobrara County LibraryLusk, Wyoming · (307) 334-3490425 South Main StreetCommunity programming including storytime, art classes for youth, and movie events →Hot Springs County LibraryThermopolis, Wyoming · (307) 864-3104344 Arapahoe StreetActive programming: STEM afternoons, toddler storytime, teen book club, Lego Club Fridays at 3:30pm →Goshen County LibraryTorrington, Wyoming · (307) 532-34112001 East A StreetChildren's Room with weekly storytime and imaginative-play space →

FAQ

How much does library story time cost?

Nothing — library story times are free, and you usually do not need a library card or any sign-up to attend. A few special or high-demand sessions ask you to register or grab a free ticket, but the regular weekly story times are open to everyone at no charge.

What age is library story time for?

Story times run from birth through the preschool years. Many libraries offer separate sessions — baby or lapsit (0–18 months), toddler (about 18 months to 3 years) and preschool (3–5 years) — as well as a mixed-age family story time that any age can attend with a caregiver.

Do I need to register or bring a library card?

Usually no. Most story times are drop-in — you just show up — and no library card is required to attend. Some libraries ask you to register for special events or when space is limited, so it is worth checking the branch’s calendar first.

What happens at a library story time?

A librarian reads one or more picture books aloud and leads songs, nursery rhymes, fingerplays and simple movement between books, often with puppets, a flannel board or musical instruments. Sessions run about 20–40 minutes and frequently end with free play, a simple craft or time to browse and borrow books.

How do I find the story-time schedule for my library?

Find your library in the state-by-state list below and open its website or online events calendar, where the current story-time days, times and age groups are posted. Schedules change between the school year and summer and around holidays, so check the library’s calendar — or call the branch — before you go.

New to libraries? Learn how to get a library card in any U.S. state, or find a branch near you in the public library directory.

By Megan Carter, Library Resources Editor · public-libraries.com

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