Glendale Central Library
About
Glendale Central Library is a modern, family-friendly destination that goes far beyond just books. With an extensive children's section featuring interactive programs, regular storytimes, and dedicated activity areas designed for different age groups, it's a free indoor option that keeps kids engaged while fostering a love of reading and learning.
Highlights
- ✓Weekly storytimes for different age groups with songs, movement, and craft activities
- ✓Interactive children's section with educational toys and hands-on learning stations
- ✓Regular STEM programs and educational workshops for kids
- ✓Extensive picture book and early reader collections organized by age and interest
- ✓Comfortable reading areas and family-friendly spaces throughout the children's section
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for popular storytimes as seating fills up quickly, especially for the toddler sessions
- 2.Check the library's online calendar before visiting to catch special programs like puppet shows, craft sessions, or visiting authors
- 3.Parking can be tight during peak afternoon hours; use the public lot on Harvard Street or consider visiting during morning hours
- 4.Bring a reusable bag for carrying books home, and download the library app to manage holds and renewals easily
- 5.The upstairs children's area has quieter reading nooks perfect for when younger siblings need a calm-down break
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11am) offer the calmest experience with access to scheduled storytimes, while avoiding after-school crowds. Saturday mornings feature special family programs but expect larger crowds.
What to Know
Library cards are free for Glendale residents and available for a small fee for non-residents. Parking is available in adjacent lots, and the facility is fully accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with special programming during summer reading months (June-August) and holiday-themed storytimes in December. Check the schedule as hours may vary on major holidays.
Follow Glendale Central Library
Nearby Eats
Porto's Bakery & Cafe (a Glendale institution with pastries and Cuban sandwiches kids love) is just a few blocks away, or head to Carousel Restaurant for family-style Mediterranean food with a kids' menu.
More Activities Near Glendale
Brand Park
Brand Park is a spacious Glendale gem offering families a perfect blend of open green spaces, cultural attractions, and seasonal events. With its historic Brand Library, Japanese Tea House, playground areas, and wide-open lawns ideal for picnicking and running around, this park provides something for every family member to enjoy in a beautiful hillside setting.
Deukmejian Wilderness Park
Deukmejian Wilderness Park offers families an accessible escape into nature right in Glendale, with well-maintained hiking trails that range from easy stroller-friendly paths to more challenging climbs for adventurous kids. The park's scenic mountain views, shaded picnic areas, and seasonal creek make it perfect for families looking to introduce children to hiking without venturing far from the city.
City of Glendale Community Services & Parks
This well-maintained community park in Glendale offers the perfect combination of active play and relaxation for families. The modern playground equipment caters to various ages, while the seasonal splash pad provides refreshing fun during hot California summers. Parents appreciate the ample shaded picnic areas that make it easy to spend several hours here comfortably.
Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium offers guided tours that take families behind the scenes of one of baseball's most iconic venues. Kids can walk through the dugout, visit the press box, and explore areas usually off-limits during games while learning about the legendary Dodgers' rich history spanning over 60 years in Los Angeles.