Wilmington Public Library
About
Wilmington Public Library offers families a welcoming space to nurture young readers with dedicated children's sections filled with age-appropriate books, toys, and interactive learning areas. Beyond browsing, the library hosts regular storytimes, educational programs, and hands-on activities that make literacy fun and engaging for children of all ages.
Highlights
- ✓Regular storytime sessions with engaging read-alouds and songs
- ✓Extensive children's book collection organized by age and reading level
- ✓Interactive learning spaces with educational toys and activities
- ✓Free educational programs including STEM activities and craft sessions
- ✓Knowledgeable children's librarians who provide reading recommendations
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the library's online calendar before visiting to catch special storytimes, craft sessions, or author visits that align with your child's interests
- 2.Sign up for a free library card on your first visit to access book borrowing, digital resources, and program registration
- 3.Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience with more one-on-one attention from children's librarians
- 4.The children's section has interactive learning stations and puzzles that keep kids engaged while you browse or work
- 5.Download the library app beforehand to reserve popular children's books and manage holds easily
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the calmest browsing experience, while Saturday mornings feature popular storytime programs perfect for making library visits a weekly tradition.
What to Know
The library is completely free to use with no admission fees. Street parking and nearby public lots are available, and the downtown location makes it easy to combine with other Wilmington attractions.
Seasonal Notes
The library hosts special summer reading programs with prizes and themed activities. Holiday-themed storytimes and craft sessions are offered throughout the year, though hours may vary during major holidays.
Nearby Eats
Head to Govatos Chocolates & Ice Cream (2 blocks away) for sweet treats after library time, or visit Jessop's Tavern on French Street for kid-friendly American fare in a historic setting.
More Activities Near Wilmington
Wawaset Park
Wawaset Park is a beloved Wilmington destination where families can spend an entire day enjoying top-notch outdoor amenities. The park features well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, a refreshing splash pad perfect for hot summer days, and plenty of open green space for picnics and free play. With sports facilities and shaded picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for both active adventures and relaxing family gatherings.
Riverfront
The Riverfront in Wilmington offers families a perfect blend of urban park amenities and scenic waterside relaxation. Kids can cool off in the splash pad during summer, explore multiple playgrounds, and enjoy wide-open spaces for running around, all while parents take in beautiful views of the Christina River and city skyline. The paved walking trails are ideal for strollers, bikes, and scooters, making it accessible for families with children of all ages.
Taconite Creek
Taconite Creek offers families a wonderful escape into nature just outside Wilmington, where kids can wade in shallow creek waters, explore woodland trails, and discover local wildlife. This peaceful outdoor setting provides the perfect backdrop for building fairy houses, skipping stones, and letting children connect with the natural world at their own pace.
Ashland Nature Center
Ashland Nature Center offers families 400 acres of pristine Delaware countryside to explore together through interactive nature programs, scenic hiking trails, and hands-on wildlife observation opportunities. Kids can get their hands dirty examining pond creatures, spotting local wildlife, and participating in seasonal nature education programs that make outdoor learning fun and memorable.