Today we’re reviewing Chandler’s Downtown Library branch for kids.
Not all local library branches are equal when it comes to kids programming, so this summer we’re library hopping around the East Valley to share our favorite branches worth the extra drive.
The Chandler Public Library is hosting a special reading challenge through August 1 for all ages (including adults!). In addition to prizes, they are hosting several events each week to encourage your family to get involved – think movie nights, camping in the library, scavenger hunts, and more!
And, no, you don’t need to live in Chandler to enjoy everything this library has to offer! Keep reading if you’re looking for fun ways to beat the heat this summer.
XO,
Desa Rae
Why should I check out this library?
I love the downtown Chandler location because this two-story library has an entire floor dedicated to kids! There is even a separate section for tweens and teens on the first floor.
Near Arizona Ave and Chandler Blvd, this library is located in the heart of downtown Chandler.
The parking lot offers a lot of shade, but it can fill up quickly! Arriving to an event 15 minutes early can make a big difference between you getting a spot right away or waiting for one.
Fortunately, the Johnathon Parking Garage is right around the corner if you need it!
Where is the kids’ section?
Take the elevator or stairs to the second floor and you’ll find the entire floor is dedicated to entertaining your kids! If you head to the left you’ll see the Youth Area where there are rows of books, several stations with toys, and computers.
There is a small section in the back with a cute play kitchen that also has a private bathroom behind it. Just outside those glass walls there are several bins filled with board books for littles.
If you head to the right on the second floor, you’ll find meeting rooms including Cooper Room North where a lot of library events for littles are held.
Things to do with kids under age 5
There are several story time options for this age group! You don’t need to register in advance but capacity may be limited since they do tend to draw a crowd.
Every Wednesday morning, this location offers Baby Time for infants up to 18 months where you can spend 30 minutes bonding with your baby!
On Tuesday and Thursday mornings, bring your toddlers (ages 18-36 months) in for a half an hour of singing and playing at Toddlertime. Shortly after this, the room is reset for a 45-minute Preschool Time which is perfect for ages 3-5 who are already in school or preparing to go.
During one week a month, the librarians will also set out STEAM-based activities in the Youth Area for all kids ages 0-5 to explore following Preschool Time. Separately, a STEAM-based play session takes place the first Thursday of every month in the afternoons for ages 2-5.
Looking for a fun way to wind down your kiddo before bedtime? Twice per month this location offers Bedtime Storytime on Mondays after 6pm where your child will participate in a calming activity and learn simple yoga poses.
Things to do with school-aged kids (6-12 years)
LEGO club is held the first Wednesday of every month with a new theme each month! You can participate in the theme or choose to free build on your own.
The second Wednesday of every month this location hosts a STEAM event to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through hands-on activities.
Feeling artsy? On the third Wednesday of every month, the library hosts a craft for school-aged kids and tweens to socialize. They also offer special crafts around major holidays.
For tweens (9-12 years) they host events that teach new skills like learning how to crochet or use a 3D printer. In the café on the first floor, they also have a wide selection of board games that can be played onsite with friends or checked out and taken home.
Things to do with teens (13-18 years)
The best place to find other teens is at The Spot on the first floor. This is also where the library hosts several teen-specific events.
There is a monthly series called The Makery where your teen can learn how to use different equipment such as 3D printers or have access to a sewing machine for a couple of hours.
Once a month, the library hosts a table-top game night where teens can play a variety of classic board games like Catan or Dungeons & Dragons while meeting new friends!
Need volunteer hours? The library is always seeking teen volunteers to make many of their events possible, especially during summer programming!
Stay connected to your local library!
You don’t not have to live in Chandler to request a FREE library card! You can use your library card to check out a culture pass for FREE admission for two people at participating local businesses.
The best way to stay connected to upcoming events at this location is to sign-up to receive their newsletter. You can also check out their events calendar for more information on the classes I’ve shared above.
Hope to see you hanging out at this local library more this summer!
