11 Best Libraries for Kids around Los Angeles

Gina I.:  You'll be hard-pressed to find a better children's library than the one at Cerritos Millennium Library! From the 15,000 gallon saltwater aquarium and the towering T-Rex replica to the deep space mural and library's very own rainforest - there's lots to do and see! The library also hosts wonderful programs, including: Child & Teen Read Aloud, where little ones are partnered with enthusiastic teen reading buddies. Check out their calendar for info on upcoming story times, crafts, art classes, kids' book clubs, STEM activities, LEGO Club, and more!

Gina I.:  This L.A. County Library offers comfortable and inviting spaces for kids to read, explore and have fun! Their Smarty Pants Storytime helps little ones build literacy skills through reading, music, poetry, and movement, and parents will get take-home activities to kelp kids continue building skills at home. They also offer a Mini Painters program for babies and toddlers, family coloring, STEM activities, fun clubs, events for teens, and more!

Gina I.:  The Pasadena Public Library offers a variety of events and resources designed just for kids! Stop in for infant & toddler storytime, Baby Gym activity time, family fun films, after school homework help, and more. Kids who want to practice their reading can check out Barks and Books - a wonderful program where the Pasadena Humane Society brings in friendly, well-mannered pooches for kids to read to!

Gina I.:  There's always kid-friendly fun to be had at the L.A. Library's Central Branch! The spacious Children's Literature Department is host to a number of ongoing and special events. Be sure to check out their calendar for details on great programs like: preschool story time, STEAM activities, crafts, music classes, kids' movies, STAR Volunteer story time, and much more! An historic L.A. landmark, the library is also a great place to explore gorgeous murals, stunning architecture, and public art displays. If the kids get hungry, there is even a Panda Express on site!

Gina I.:  Burbank Public Library is host to a number of wonderful children's programs at their Central and Buena Vista branches - from monthly family films and family nights to Crafty Kids, LEGO Club (Central Branch), Book Parties, and more! The Buena Vista Branch also features a wonderful Children's Library that offers free access to ABC Mouse, as well as baby, preschool and toddler story times. Early literacy programs and activities are offered at both locations.

Upparent:  Parents love the story times at this L.A. public library branch!

Upparent:  The children's area is a favorite at this Los Angeles County library branch, with a dedicated reading space for kiddos, a children's theater, and story times throughout the week.

Gina I.:  BHPL is home to a fun & engaging Children's Library, offering lots of ongoing and special events. In addition to providing a variety of story time options, the library hosts holiday crafts & entertainment, live kids music, family movie dates, kids dance parties and more! Older kids can get homework help the Teen Zone, and everyone will enjoy grabbing a treat at the library's Coffee & Fudge Shop!

Gina I.:  L.A. County Libraries, including the Culver City Julian Dixon Library, offer a school readiness program - Smarty Pants Storytime, featuring music, reading and fun activities that help kids build literacy, math and social skills. But that's not all! Culver City Julian Dixon Library also provides a wonderful children's space that is host to ongoing programs like: Baby, Toddler & Family Storytimes and Kid's Club, as well as special events, art & STEM activities, and more. Parking can be challenging. So be sure to plan ahead.

Gina I.:  Kids love the Santa Monica Library! Whether it's story time for the little ones or L.E.A.R.N. homework help for your school-age children, there's something for everyone. In addition, the library hosts an array of fun activities, including: music workshops, Preschool Explorers, cultural events, Artful Toddlers art classes, Baby Time, family game night, and much more. Be sure to check out the Bookmark Cafe, serving breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

Gina I.:  With a cozy, colorful children's section and tons of great events, it's easy to see why so many families love visiting Platt Branch Library. In addition to their ongoing preschool story time, kids will also enjoy LAPD Read Along, where Los Angeles Police Officers stop in for stories and fun. Platt Branch Library also offers family movies, crafts & coloring, game days, live entertainment, BARK story time with furry friends, teen time, and much more.