


Madaba Children's Library
About
This welcoming community library offers a wonderful refuge for families exploring Jordan, featuring an extensive children's book collection and bilingual story time sessions. It's an excellent place for kids to unwind, enjoy familiar activities in a new setting, and potentially connect with local families through the universal language of storytelling.
Highlights
- ✓Bilingual story time sessions in both Arabic and English
- ✓Extensive children's book collection with English language titles
- ✓Comfortable reading rooms perfect for escaping the heat
- ✓Opportunity for cultural exchange with local Jordanian families
- ✓Free admission providing budget-friendly entertainment
Pro Tips
- 1.Check ahead for English story time schedules, as these special sessions may not run daily and can be a highlight for non-Arabic speaking children.
- 2.Visit during mid-morning on weekdays for quieter browsing time, as after-school hours tend to be busier with local children.
- 3.Bring your passport or hotel information, as some libraries require visitor registration for non-residents.
- 4.This makes an excellent air-conditioned break during hot summer afternoons when outdoor sightseeing becomes too intense.
- 5.Consider it a cultural exchange opportunity where your children can observe how local kids enjoy similar activities like reading and storytelling.
Best Time to Visit
Visit mid-morning on weekdays (9-11am) for the quietest experience, or align your visit with scheduled English story time sessions for maximum engagement. Avoid peak after-school hours (2-4pm) when local families fill the space.
What to Know
Admission is completely free, making it a budget-friendly activity. Dress modestly as a sign of respect in this conservative country. The library may close during Friday prayers and have reduced hours during Ramadan.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but particularly valuable during summer months (June through August) as a cool indoor retreat. Hours may be adjusted during Ramadan, and the library typically closes for major Islamic holidays. Confirm operating hours before visiting during religious observances.
Nearby Eats
Haret Jdoudna Restaurant offers traditional Jordanian cuisine in a family-friendly setting just a short walk away. For familiar options, several cafes and restaurants around Madaba's central area serve pizza and grilled chicken that appeal to less adventurous young eaters.
More Activities Near Madaba
Madaba Café Culture District
The Madaba Café Culture District offers families a delightful introduction to Palestinian culinary traditions in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Kids will love sampling sweet treats like kanafeh and baklava while parents enjoy fresh juices and Arabic coffee. It's an ideal spot to take a break from sightseeing and let children experience authentic Middle Eastern café culture in a family-friendly environment.
Made in Jordan صنع في الأردن
Made in Jordan offers a captivating cultural experience where children can watch skilled artisans create beautiful ceramics, textiles, and traditional crafts right before their eyes. This interactive marketplace combines education with shopping, allowing kids to see the creative process from start to finish while picking out unique, authentic souvenirs to take home. The hands-on atmosphere makes learning about Jordanian culture exciting and memorable for young visitors.
Madaba Institute For Mosaic Art And Restoration
This unique cultural institution offers hands-on mosaic-making workshops where children learn ancient Byzantine techniques from master artisans. Located in Madaba, Jordan's famous 'City of Mosaics,' kids get to create their own mosaic artwork to take home, making it an educational and memorable souvenir experience that combines history, art, and creativity.
St George's Greek Orthodox Church
St. George's Greek Orthodox Church houses one of the Middle East's most remarkable ancient treasures: a 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land featuring Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and biblical locations. Interactive exhibits designed for young visitors help bring this 1,500-year-old masterpiece to life, making ancient history accessible and engaging for curious minds.