Skip to main content
Grimes Public Library library in Grimes, IA
Photo: Vas Shebarshov
View of Grimes Public Library in Grimes, IA
Photo: Friends GPL
View of Grimes Public Library in Grimes, IA
Photo: Friends GPL

Grimes Public Library

4.8(66 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive at story time sessions, preschoolers enjoy early literacy programs, while elementary-aged kids love the summer reading challenges and educational activities. The modern spaces accommodate all developmental stages with age-appropriate materials and programming.

About

Grimes Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books, offering an impressive lineup of children's programming throughout the year. With its modern learning spaces, engaging story times, and popular summer reading challenges, this highly-rated library provides a perfect indoor destination for fostering your child's love of reading and learning in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment.

Highlights

  • Regular story time sessions for various age groups
  • Extensive children's book collection with engaging displays
  • Popular summer reading programs with incentives and prizes
  • Modern, comfortable learning spaces designed for families
  • Year-round educational activities and craft programs

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Sign up for a library card on your first visit,it's free for Grimes residents and opens access to all programs and digital resources
  2. 2.Check their online calendar before visiting to catch special story times, craft sessions, or educational programs that perfectly match your child's interests
  3. 3.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest browsing experience, while afternoons and weekends offer more opportunities to connect with other families
  4. 4.Take advantage of the summer reading program,kids earn prizes for reading goals and it helps prevent the summer learning slide
  5. 5.Download the library's app to reserve books in advance and check program schedules on the go

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) are ideal for peaceful browsing and toddler story times. Saturday mornings offer great family programming, while Sunday afternoons (1:00-5:00 PM) provide a quieter weekend option. Summer months feature the most robust programming with daily activities.

What to Know

Library services are completely free with a library card (free for residents, small fee for non-residents). Ample free parking is available. The facility is fully accessible and features modern, comfortable spaces for families to read and learn together.

Seasonal Notes

Summer reading programs (June-July) are the highlight of the year with daily activities and special events. The library offers extended Monday-Thursday hours (until 8:00 PM) during the school year for after-school studying. Check for special holiday programs around major holidays and school breaks.

Nearby Eats

Casey's General Store is nearby for quick pizza and snacks, or head to Jethro's BBQ (about 5 minutes away) for family-friendly comfort food with a kids menu that even picky eaters will enjoy.

More Activities Near Grimes

Park

Kennybrook South Park

4.7Free

Kennybrook South Park is a wonderful neighborhood gem in Grimes that offers everything families need for a fun outdoor outing. With well-maintained playground structures, plenty of open space for running and games, and scenic walking paths perfect for strollers or family bikes, this park consistently earns high marks from local parents for its clean, safe environment and convenient location.

Park

Maple Glen Park

4.6Free

Maple Glen Park is a welcoming community park that offers families a perfect escape for outdoor play and exploration. With well-maintained playground equipment, shaded picnic spots, and scenic trails suitable for strollers, bikes, and little walkers, it's an ideal destination for burning energy and enjoying quality family time in a peaceful residential setting.

Nature

Cherry Glen Playground

4.6Free

Cherry Glen Playground offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore Iowa's native prairie ecosystem through accessible walking trails and hands-on nature discovery. Kids can spot butterflies, birds, and other wildlife while learning about local habitats through engaging educational signage scattered throughout this beautifully restored natural area.

Park

Centennial Park

4.6Free

Centennial Park in Grimes is a spacious community hub that checks all the boxes for active families. With multiple playgrounds to explore, wide-open grassy areas perfect for running and games, and well-maintained walking trails for bikes and strollers, it's designed to keep kids of all ages happily occupied. The covered picnic shelters make it an ideal spot for birthday parties or extended family gatherings, while the sports fields provide plenty of room for kids to burn energy.