Today we’re reviewing Maricopa County Library District’s Southeast Regional branch, also known as the Gilbert library branch, and what they offer for kids.
It’s no surprise that if you’re looking for more FREE ways to entertain your kids, taking advantage of everything your local library has to offer is the best way, but some offer more perks than others.
The Maricopa County Library District has more than just books. With 15 different locations across the valley, there are so many events and resources at your disposal for all ages.
Because these libraries are so spread apart, you will most likely only visit the one closest to you. Today I’ll be sharing more about the one closest to me: Southeast Regional in Gilbert.
Keep reading to learn more about things to do at this local library!
XO,
Desa Rae
What does the Southeast Regional Library have for kids to do?
Situated on the corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe, this location offers tons of FREE things to do for families.
When it’s 110 degrees outside, the library is a great option to stay cool indoors. When it’s not blazing hot outside, it’s easy to spend an entire morning here because it’s right next to the beautiful Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch and within reasonable walking distance to the gem that is Carl’s Damaged Pet Warehouse.
Is there a kids’ section at Southwest Gilbert Library in Gilbert?
This library has a large kid’s section which takes up the entire left wing!
The first thing you’ll see when you get there is a dollhouse encased in glass. The librarians update what is in the dollhouse regularly and often have fun seasonal surprises, so I recommend stopping to take a look!
Once you pass the dollhouse, you’re in! There is a board book section for littles next to the family restrooms and several sections for older kids.
Most events take place in a room called The Dig which is at the back of the kids’ section. Some events require advanced registration so be sure to check their events calendar.
Things to do with kids under age 5 at Gilbert’s Library branch
For infants (0-18 months) this location also offers two 30-minute story times called Baby Lapsit on Mondays. You and your baby will spend this time reading, singing, and playing together!
Toddlers (18-36 months) and Preschoolers (3-5 years) each have a designated 45-minute playtime offering once a month. These typically fall on a Thursday or Friday and they fill up fast! One of the librarians sets up several stations with different toys and activities for kids to engage in free play together.
Family Story Time is offered in the mornings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and is a great option if you have multiple children under 5 since the other events have age restrictions. One of the librarians will pick out a theme for the day and engage the kids in relevant songs, books, and something fun like the letter of the day.
If you and your little one love reading and want to win prizes, be sure to sign up for the 1,000 Books before Kindergarten program!
Things to do with school-aged kids (5-12 years) at the Southeast Regional Library branch
This location holds 3-4 special events per month for this age group. One is usually focused on a STEM activity and the others range from creating kites to building with LEGOs! The names of these events are always changing so you’ll want to use the filters on their event calendar to find them.
Beside the dollhouse at the beginning of the kids’ section, there is usually a prepared activity on a tray packaged in individual plastic bags that you can work on at the library or take home.
On the North side of the kids section you will find themed packages put together by librarians. These are carefully curated bundles with books and media all around the selected theme.
In the back of the kids’ section there are Lakeshore Learning boards and computers for play or schoolwork by large windows that feature an amazing view of the Riparian Preserve.
Things to do with teens (13-18 years) at the Southeast Regional Library branch in Gilbert
Once a month, the library holds a Teen Craft Night in the evening and regularly holds Teen Movie Nights as well!
There are several computers with Wi-Fi enabled toward the back of the kids’ section for schoolwork. If it’s a group project, anyone with a library card can reserve one of their study rooms online.
Need volunteer hours? The library is always looking for teen volunteers!
But wait… there’s more!
All Maricopa County Library District locations host a Summer Reading Program available for all ages and have culture passes available which provide free admission to participating local organizations.
As you can see, this library has so much to offer for all ages! I hope this post encourages you to spend more time at your local library. The best way to stay in the know about what’s going on is to subscribe to their mailing list.
Did you know the Maricopa County Library District does not have locations in every city or town in Maricopa County? Several cities have their own library systems!
And, no, you don’t have to live in those cities to access their libraries. Check out our reviews on Mesa Dobson Ranch and Downtown Chandler Public Libraries to learn more.
All Maricopa County Library District Libraries (15 locations)
