Photo: Lucy Araya
Photo: Jansen Wendlandt
Photo: Alexander Kozik
Mary L. Stephens Davis Library
★4.0(257 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive at the interactive storytimes, preschoolers love the play areas and picture book collection, while school-age kids can dive into the summer reading programs, craft activities, and extensive middle-grade book selection.🧡 Saved by 11 families
About
The Mary L. Stephens Davis Library is a wonderful community hub offering much more than just books. With its spacious, modern children's section, regularly scheduled storytimes, creative craft programs, and engaging summer reading challenges, it's a go-to destination for Davis families looking for educational entertainment that won't break the bank.
Highlights
- ✓Weekly storytime sessions featuring songs, stories, and movement activities
- ✓Extensive children's book collection with comfortable reading nooks
- ✓Summer reading programs with prizes and special events
- ✓Regular craft activities and hands-on learning programs
- ✓Family-friendly special events throughout the year including author visits
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for storytime programs as they're popular and seating fills up quickly, especially during winter months
- 2.Sign up for the summer reading program early in June to maximize participation in special events and prize opportunities
- 3.Check the library's online calendar before visiting to catch special craft days, author visits, or STEM activities that aren't regularly scheduled
- 4.Parking can be tight during after-school hours (3-5 PM on weekdays), so visit mid-morning or weekends for easier access
- 5.Bring a reusable tote bag,kids often want to check out more books than they can carry
Best Time to Visit
Mid-morning on weekdays (10 AM-12 PM Tuesday-Friday) offers the calmest experience with full staff availability. Saturday mornings are great for storytime events but expect crowds. Avoid the after-school rush (3-5 PM) unless attending a specific program.
What to Know
Library services are completely free with a library card (free for Davis residents and Yolo County residents). Street parking is available along E 14th Street and nearby residential streets. No food or drinks allowed except water bottles.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs run June through August with the most activities and events. The library hosts special holiday-themed storytimes and crafts during winter holidays. Check for reduced hours during university breaks as Davis is a college town.
Real Experiences
@yolocountylibrary
View on TikTok
Nearby Eats
Walk two blocks to Downtown Davis where you'll find kid-friendly spots like Burgers and Brew (great kids menu and casual atmosphere) or Village Bakery for pizza and pastries that please picky eaters.
More Activities Near Davis
Playground
Slide Hill Park
Free❤️13
Slide Hill Park is a Davis institution that delivers exactly what its name promises: thrilling concrete slides built right into a natural hillside that kids can ride down on cardboard. Beyond the famous slides, families will find a well-equipped playground with climbing structures, open grassy areas perfect for running around, basketball courts for older kids, and shaded picnic tables that make this an ideal spot for a neighborhood gathering or casual family afternoon.
Adventure
Senda Nueva Greenbelt Play Area
★4.8Free
Senda Nueva Greenbelt Play Area is a fantastic hub for active families in Davis, offering an extensive network of smooth bike paths and walking trails that connect to parks throughout the city. This well-maintained greenbelt system is ideal for teaching kids to ride bikes, enjoying nature walks, or exploring Davis's famously bike-friendly community together.
Park
Community Park
★4.6Free❤️16
Community Park is Davis's go-to destination for families, offering an impressive variety of activities all in one location. With multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, a popular splash pad for hot California days, wide-open grassy areas perfect for running and picnicking, plus sports fields and a skate park, there's truly something to keep every member of the family entertained for hours.
Museum
Explorit Science Center
★4.5$❤️106
Explorit Science Center is a hidden gem in Davis that transforms science learning into hands-on fun for elementary-aged kids. With interactive exhibits that encourage touching, exploring, and experimenting, this community-focused science museum offers rotating workshops and programs that keep curious minds engaged without the overwhelming crowds of larger Bay Area museums.