Palisades Branch Library
About
Palisades Branch Library is a welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books, offering an extensive children's section and year-round programming designed specifically for young readers. With regular storytimes, educational workshops, and popular summer reading activities, it's a perfect spot to nurture your child's love of learning while connecting with other local families in the Pacific Palisades community.
Highlights
- ✓Weekly storytimes with songs, fingerplays, and age-appropriate books
- ✓Extensive children's book collection including picture books, early readers, and middle-grade novels
- ✓Summer reading program with prizes and educational activities
- ✓Educational workshops and craft programs throughout the year
- ✓Family-friendly community events and holiday celebrations
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early for storytime sessions as they're popular with local families and seating can fill up quickly
- 2.Sign up for the summer reading program in early June to maximize your child's participation in special events and prize opportunities
- 3.Check the library's calendar online before visiting to catch special author visits, craft workshops, or holiday-themed programs
- 4.Bring your library card from home, or plan extra time on your first visit to register for a free Los Angeles Public Library card
- 5.The children's section has cozy reading nooks perfect for settling in with new discoveries,bring a water bottle since visits often last longer than planned
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday through Friday afternoons around 2:00-3:00 PM offer a quieter experience before after-school crowds arrive. Saturdays are busiest but offer the most programmed activities and storytimes, making them ideal if your kids enjoy group activities.
What to Know
The library is completely free to use with no admission costs. Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Note the limited afternoon-only hours (1:00-5:00 PM) with Monday and Sunday closures, so plan accordingly.
Seasonal Notes
The Summer Reading Program (typically June-August) is the highlight of the year with special performances, reading challenges, and prizes. Holiday-themed storytimes and events are offered around major holidays. Check for occasional closures during city holidays.
Nearby Eats
Head to Palisades Village (1.5 miles away) for family-friendly options like Farmshop or Ivy at the Shore, both offering kids' menus. For a quicker bite, Café Vida nearby has healthy options including a children's menu with organic choices.
More Activities Near Pacific Palisades
SRF Lake Shrine (Reservation Required)
SRF Lake Shrine offers a rare opportunity to introduce children to mindfulness in a stunning natural setting. This serene 10-acre garden features a spring-fed lake with swans, a cascading waterfall, and peaceful walking paths that help even energetic kids slow down and appreciate nature's beauty. It's an ideal spot for families seeking a calm, educational outing that teaches children about meditation, world religions, and respecting tranquil spaces.
Pacific Palisades Beach
Pacific Palisades Beach offers families a more tranquil alternative to LA's busier beaches, with fascinating tide pools that turn every low tide into a marine biology lesson. The protected cove setting creates calmer waters perfect for younger swimmers, while the neighborhood location means fewer crowds and a more relaxed beach day where parents can actually unwind.
Will Rogers State Historic Park
Will Rogers State Historic Park offers families a perfect blend of history, nature, and outdoor adventure in the Pacific Palisades hills. Kids can explore the Western movie star's preserved 1920s ranch home, hike scenic trails with breathtaking ocean views, watch weekend polo matches on the grass, and enjoy spacious picnic areas perfect for family lunches.
Temescal Gateway Park, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority
Temescal Gateway Park is a hidden gem in Pacific Palisades offering families the perfect blend of playground fun and nature exploration. Kids can splash in the seasonal creek, burn energy on the well-maintained playground equipment, then venture onto scenic hiking trails that wind through the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains,all within one convenient location.