Photo: Abdelhalim Ragab
Photo: Niroj Bhattarai
Photo: Jòseph Pellegrino
Evanston Public Library
★4.5(239 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive in the gentle storytime sessions, preschoolers love the interactive play areas and picture book collection, while elementary-aged kids dive into the maker spaces and STEM programs that encourage hands-on learning.🧡 Saved by 5 families
About
The Evanston Public Library is a family favorite with an exceptional children's department that goes far beyond books. With interactive maker spaces, engaging storytimes, creative programs, and a treasure trove of educational materials, this library transforms reading time into an adventure that sparks curiosity and imagination in kids of all ages.
Highlights
- ✓Award-winning storytimes with songs, puppets, and interactive activities for different age groups
- ✓Hands-on maker spaces with technology, arts and crafts, and STEM activities
- ✓Extensive collection of children's books, graphic novels, board games, and educational toys to borrow
- ✓Regular special programs including author visits, craft workshops, and educational series
- ✓Comfortable reading nooks and play areas designed specifically for young learners
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the library's event calendar online before visiting - storytimes and special programs fill up quickly and some require advance registration
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday around 10 AM) for a quieter experience with easier access to staff help and materials
- 3.Get a library card on your first visit - it's free for Illinois residents and unlocks access to all programs, digital resources, and borrowing privileges
- 4.The maker space offers unique tools and materials you won't have at home - let kids experiment with activities like 3D printing, robotics, or crafting stations
- 5.Parking can be challenging downtown; use the Sherman Plaza Garage at 808 Davis Street (2-hour free parking with validation from the library)
Best Time to Visit
Weekday late mornings (10 AM-12 PM Tuesday through Thursday) offer the perfect balance of available programs without weekend crowds. Saturday mornings can be busy but feature the most robust storytime schedule if your family needs weekend programming.
What to Know
The library is completely free to use with programs open to all (library card needed for some activities). Street parking is metered, but the nearby Sherman Plaza Garage offers validation. The building is fully accessible with elevators, and the children's area is spacious and stroller-friendly.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs run June through August with extra activities, prizes, and special events. Winter months feature cozy indoor programs perfect for cold Chicago days. The library hosts special holiday storytimes and craft events around major holidays. Check hours during holiday weeks as closures may occur.
Nearby Eats
Head to Bat 17 (three blocks away) for kid-approved burgers, chicken tenders, and shakes in a casual sports-themed atmosphere, or try Cozy Noodles & Rice for quick, affordable Asian cuisine that kids love including mild noodle dishes and fried rice.
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Museum
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