Mill Valley Public Library
About
The Mill Valley Public Library is a beloved community gem offering families far more than just books. With its award-winning children's section, engaging story times, creative summer reading programs, and year-round family events, this library transforms reading into an adventure that keeps kids coming back week after week.
Highlights
- ✓Award-winning children's section with age-appropriate reading nooks and play areas
- ✓Regular story time sessions featuring songs, movement, and interactive reading
- ✓Summer reading programs with prizes and incentives for young readers
- ✓Year-round family events including author visits, craft activities, and educational programs
- ✓Excellent selection of board books, picture books, chapter books, and teen literature
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early for popular story time sessions as they fill up quickly, especially during weekday mornings when they're less crowded than weekends
- 2.Sign up for the summer reading program as soon as it opens,kids earn prizes and the sense of accomplishment keeps them motivated all vacation long
- 3.Check the library's event calendar online before visiting to catch special author visits, craft sessions, or themed programs
- 4.The children's section has cozy reading nooks perfect for settling in with new discoveries,bring extra time for browsing
- 5.Parking can be limited on Throckmorton Ave, so consider the public lot behind the library or arrive when they open for best spots
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM - noon) Tuesday through Thursday offer the quietest browsing time and regularly scheduled story times. Saturday and Sunday afternoons get busier but often feature special family programming worth planning around.
What to Know
Library cards are free for Marin County residents. Street parking is limited but there's a public lot nearby. The library is fully accessible and restrooms have changing tables.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs (June-August) are the highlight of the year with special events and reading challenges. The library hosts holiday-themed story times and craft sessions during winter break. Check their calendar for reduced hours during major holidays.
Nearby Eats
Grab lunch at Piazza D'Angelo (Italian with pizza kids love) or Stefano's Pizza just steps away on Miller Avenue for family-friendly dining after library time.
More Activities Near Mill Valley
Dipsea Trail
The Dipsea Trail offers families a magical introduction to Bay Area hiking through towering redwood groves and peaceful forest paths. While the full trail is challenging, the lower Mill Valley sections provide gentle, kid-friendly walks where little ones can explore nature, spot banana slugs, and experience the wonder of walking among giants without steep climbs.
Phyllis Ellman Trail
The Phyllis Ellman Trail is an easy, paved pathway that's perfect for families with young children, jogger strollers, and beginner walkers. This scenic Mill Valley connector trail offers gentle grades, beautiful neighborhood views, and a safe space for kids to explore nature without challenging terrain or busy roads.
Old Mill Park
Old Mill Park is a charming, family-friendly oasis in Mill Valley where kids can splash in the gentle creek, explore around the historic replica mill wheel, and run freely on soft grassy areas under towering redwoods. With its safe, enclosed feel and toddler-friendly water play, this park is a local favorite that combines natural beauty with low-key fun perfect for the preschool and early elementary crowd.
Sweetwater Music Hall
Sweetwater Music Hall brings live music to life for families in a historic, intimate setting in downtown Mill Valley. While primarily an evening music venue, they host special all-ages concerts and family-friendly matinee shows that introduce kids to the magic of live performance in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere where young music lovers can experience everything from folk to rock up close.