Norman Mayer Library
About
Norman Mayer Library is a welcoming community hub in New Orleans' Gentilly neighborhood that goes beyond just books. With regular story times, hands-on educational activities, and an extensive children's collection, this library creates a fun, enriching environment where kids can discover the joy of reading while parents enjoy free, quality programming.
Highlights
- ✓Engaging story time sessions that bring books to life for young listeners
- ✓Extensive children's book collection spanning board books to young adult titles
- ✓Educational programs and activities designed to foster learning
- ✓Friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide excellent reading recommendations
- ✓Comfortable children's area designed for families to read together
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead or check the library's schedule to catch their popular story time sessions, which typically draw enthusiastic crowds of young readers
- 2.Bring your library card or sign up for a free one on your first visit to check out books and access additional programs
- 3.Visit on Monday or Tuesday evenings (open until 7:00 PM) for a quieter experience when many families are doing dinner and homework
- 4.The children's section has cozy reading nooks perfect for settling in with your little ones for some quality reading time
- 5.Ask librarians about upcoming special events and themed programs, which often include crafts and interactive learning activities
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00-11:30 AM) are ideal for attending structured story times and enjoying the children's section before it gets busy. Saturday mornings are popular but offer a vibrant community atmosphere if your kids enjoy socializing.
What to Know
The library is completely free to visit and use. Parking is available on-site. The library is closed Sundays, and note the earlier 5:00 PM closing time on Fridays and Saturdays versus 7:00 PM on weekdays.
Seasonal Notes
Libraries offer year-round programming, but summer reading programs are particularly popular with special activities, challenges, and prizes. Check for holiday closures and themed story times around major holidays like Halloween and Christmas.
Nearby Eats
Mondo on the nearby corner of Gentilly Boulevard offers casual, family-friendly fare. For a quick treat after library time, grab po-boys or local favorites at nearby Gentilly eateries along the boulevard.
More Activities Near Uptown
Magazine Street
Magazine Street is a six-mile treasure trove stretching through Uptown New Orleans, packed with charming toy stores, independent bookshops, and family-friendly boutiques that make for a delightful day of exploration. Unlike typical shopping districts, this eclectic corridor offers a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere where families can browse unique shops, grab bites at casual eateries, and discover hidden gems that big-box stores simply can't match.
The Wiegand Butterfly House
The Wiegand Butterfly House offers an enchanting indoor garden experience where children can walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies in a tropical paradise setting. Located within the Audubon facilities in Uptown LA, this immersive nature museum combines the wonder of colorful butterflies with hands-on insect exhibits that transform learning into an unforgettable adventure for curious young minds.
Audubon Park
Audubon Park is a stunning 350-acre urban oasis in New Orleans' Uptown neighborhood that offers families endless opportunities for outdoor fun. With sprawling oak-shaded playgrounds, scenic walking paths around picturesque lagoons, and vast open lawns perfect for running, playing, and picnicking, it's a beloved destination where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy the beautiful Southern landscape.
Audubon Riverview (Butterfly) Park
Audubon Riverview Park, affectionately known as 'The Fly' by locals, is a sprawling riverfront oasis where families can watch massive cargo ships glide along the Mississippi River while kids run free on open green spaces. This beloved Uptown gem combines stunning river views with plenty of room for bikes, picnics, and outdoor play, making it a go-to spot for New Orleans families seeking fresh air and adventure.