Today we’re reviewing Tempe’s Public Library kids events and programming.
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.
If you haven’t explored the Tempe Public Library yet, I hope this post inspires you to get out to this location!
You don’t need to live in Tempe to experience all this library has to offer, and you’ll find there are so many toys, books and things to do from littles to teens.
Keeping reading to learn about all of the FREE activities and events to take advantage of in Tempe!
XO,
Desa Rae
Why should I check out Tempe Library with my kids?
Just off of the 60 at Rural Rd, this library is easily accessible! The parking lot offers plenty of shade and I’ve never had an issue finding a spot.
This location also offers easy access to other great opportunities nearby! Right around the corner is the Tempe History Museum which offers free admission with a dedicated kid’s section.
Free Art Friday also starts back up in October at the Edna Vihel Arts Center next door where they put on a free event once a month filled with arts, music and crafts.
Where is the kids’ section at Tempe library?
The youth section takes up the entire bottom floor of this library!
When you walk in the main entrance of the library, you will see a set of stairs directly in front of you. You can take these straight down or take the elevator directly to your left down instead.
Most events do not require advance registration but check their events calendar to be sure!
Things to do at Tempe library with kids under age 5
There are two great sections in the youth area for littles to play. The first is when you first enter the youth area, directly on your right. There are tons of board books and wooden cars to play on!
The second is in the back of the youth area near the Storytime Room. There is a cute Pueblo Playhouse with a play kitchen inside, a large sitting area for parents, and lots of wooden toys to keep kids entertained. We spend most of our time here when we visit!
For babies ages 0-18 months there is a story-based event called Baby Storytime on Mondays from 10-10:30am and a more play-based option called Baby Bonding from 10:30-11am.
Toddlers and preschoolers can enjoy Toddler Storytime on Thursdays from 10-10:30am or Preschool Storytime on Wednesdays from 10-10:30am to help prepare your child for kindergarten.
The whole family can enjoy Family Storytime just before bed at 6:30pm on Tuesday evenings.
Things to do with school-aged kids at Tempe Library (6-11 years)
When you walk into the youth area, there is a large coloring table set up directly behind the librarian’s desk. You can use the crayons available to color a specific picture or color directly on the paper they place over the table!
If your child wants to play a board game or build with blocks, there are several games you can check out with the librarian that your kiddo can play while they’re at the library.
There are also computers available next to the librarian desk. Many of them are touch screen with fun, engaging games and there are also several available to get schoolwork done.
If your child is into computer programming, check out Code Club on Tuesdays from 4:00-4:45pm. Beginners are welcome; no previous experience required.
LEGO® Lab takes place every Friday from 4:00-4:45pm. There is a new build challenge each week and supplies are provided but this class fills up quickly so be sure to register in advance!
Does your child love manga, graphic novels and anime? Get Inked – Manga and Graphic Novels Club takes place on Saturdays from 3-4pm where they’ll talk about all their favorite books, characters and everything in between!
During the school year, the library partners with Arizona State University (ASU) to pair ages 6-12 with ASU students to promote confidence in reading. A one-on-one mentoring relationship is established and the students meet together weekly.
Things to do with teens at Tempe Library (12-18 years):
This library has so many options for teens! There is an entire room dedicated to teens on the bottom floor which has computers, tables, books, and a dedicated librarian inside at all times.
And there are tons of great events for this age group! Friday evenings from 4-5pm teens are always hanging out at the teen spot during the Totally Tween Hangout event.
Interested in 3D printers? Want to try a drum set or the keyboard? You can learn more about these and more at Maker Lab takes place on Wednesdays from 5:30-7pm.
Who doesn’t like games? Check out Tabletop Kingdom Board Games on Sundays from 2-3pm or play video games on Wednesdays from 4-5pm at Game On!
Join Tempe’s own Bridge Improv Theater every first Wednesday of each month for a fun filled improvisation workshop. No experience necessary!
Are you intimidated about making a budget? Do you know how to check the tread on your tires? Learn skills you won’t learn in school with librarians at Lifeskills on Mondays from 5-6pm.
Create Thursday is an individually-paced, teen-led pop-up maker space from 4-5pm where teens can explore activities like painting, button making and more. Be sure to register; space is limited for some activities.
In addition to these amazing prescheduled events, the librarian on duty will often host pop-up events randomly to encourage teens hanging out in the room to participate in an activity or game together. Sometimes there are snacks available from donations the library receives as well!
But wait… there’s more!
Kids Café is a program that provides free food and an activity to kids ages 18 and under thanks to St. Mary’s Food Bank. It takes place in the Storytime room from 3-4pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
A Farm Express bus is parked outside the library every other Tuesday from 1:30-3:30pm. Local farmers make their produce available to you at cost through this mobile bus option.
I hope this helps encourage you and your family check out the Tempe library! Subscribe to their mailing list to receive the latest news and events.
