Photo: Andrei Petrov
Photo: Edwardsville Public Library
Photo: Bryan Hadley
Edwardsville Public Library
★4.8(95 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours for a typical visit, though program events may extend to 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive during story time sessions, preschoolers enjoy the craft programs and interactive spaces, while elementary-aged children love the technology areas and independent reading challenges.🧡 Saved by 42 families
About
Edwardsville Public Library is a family favorite with an impressive 4.8-star rating, offering far more than just books. This modern facility features a dedicated children's section packed with interactive technology, regular story times, hands-on craft programs, and engaging summer reading challenges that keep kids excited about learning year-round.
Highlights
- ✓Extensive children's section with age-appropriate reading nooks and cozy spaces
- ✓Regular story time sessions led by engaging librarians
- ✓Hands-on craft programs that change seasonally
- ✓Interactive technology spaces with educational tools and devices
- ✓Summer reading challenges with prizes and incentives
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early for story time programs as they're popular and seating can fill up quickly, especially during morning sessions
- 2.Sign up for the summer reading challenge in May to get first pick of programs and ensure your kids don't miss out on prizes
- 3.Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 10-11 AM) for the quietest browsing experience in the children's section
- 4.Download the library app before your visit to reserve books, check program schedules, and manage holds from home
- 5.Ask staff about the rotating technology offerings,they often have coding activities, educational tablets, and STEM programs that aren't widely advertised
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday or Wednesday mornings between 9-11 AM offer the calmest atmosphere for browsing with young children. Saturday mornings (9 AM-noon) are ideal if you want to attend special programming, though expect more crowds.
What to Know
The library is completely free to use with a library card (free for residents). Street parking is available on Kansas Street, and the facility is fully accessible with elevators and wide aisles for strollers.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs (June-August) are the highlight of the year with special events, performances, and prizes. Holiday-themed story times and crafts occur throughout December. Note reduced Sunday hours (1-5 PM) year-round.
Nearby Eats
Cleveland-Heath (5-minute walk) offers upscale but kid-welcoming American fare with a children's menu, while Peel Wood Fired Pizza (downtown) serves quick, family-friendly pizzas perfect for hungry readers.
More Activities Near Edwardsville
Activity
Goshen Market
Free❤️14
Goshen Market in Edwardsville is a vibrant community market where families can explore fresh local produce, browse handmade artisan goods, and enjoy a meal together at the family-friendly cafe. It's a wonderful spot to teach kids about where their food comes from while supporting local vendors, and the seasonal events create festive opportunities for family outings throughout the year.
Nature
The Watershed Nature Center
★4.8Free❤️170
The Watershed Nature Center offers 150 acres of outdoor exploration where kids can hike scenic trails, meet live animals, and participate in hands-on educational programs about local ecosystems. With interactive exhibits indoors and plenty of space to roam outdoors, it's an ideal destination for families looking to combine fresh air with engaging nature education.
Activity
The Gardens at SIUE
★4.8Free❤️9
The Gardens at SIUE offers families a peaceful escape into nature with beautifully maintained themed gardens perfect for little explorers. Kids can wander through diverse garden areas along easy walking paths, discovering seasonal flowers, butterflies, and local wildlife while learning about plants and nature in an interactive outdoor setting.
Museum
Edwardsville Children's Museum
★4.6$$❤️216
Edwardsville Children's Museum is a hands-on wonderland where little ones can explore, create, and learn through interactive play. With pretend play areas that spark imagination, creative art stations, and educational exhibits designed specifically for young learners, this cozy museum keeps kids engaged while parents appreciate the quality learning experiences packed into every corner.