Edina Library
About
Edina Library is a modern, family-friendly hub that goes far beyond books, offering hands-on technology labs, interactive learning spaces, and one of the area's most robust children's programming calendars. With regular storytimes, engaging summer reading challenges, and educational activities designed to spark curiosity, it's a perfect destination for families looking for enriching indoor activities rain or shine.
Highlights
- ✓Engaging storytimes for various age groups led by enthusiastic children's librarians
- ✓Hands-on technology lab with coding robots, tablets, and digital creation stations
- ✓Extensive children's book collection with cozy reading nooks and kid-sized furniture
- ✓Annual summer reading program with prizes, performances, and reading challenges
- ✓Interactive learning spaces designed specifically for early childhood exploration
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the library's online calendar before visiting to catch popular storytimes and special programs,they often fill up quickly, especially during school breaks
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings (Thursday or Friday 9-11 AM) for quieter browsing and more one-on-one attention from staff
- 3.Sign up for a library card online before your visit to save time and immediately access digital resources and program registration
- 4.The technology lab offers hands-on learning with coding robots and digital creation tools,ask staff about drop-in times for kids to explore
- 5.Take advantage of the summer reading program starting in June, which includes free books, prizes, and special performances
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Thursday-Friday 9-11 AM) offer the quietest experience for focused browsing. For programming, Tuesday or Wednesday evenings (12-7 PM) typically feature the most children's activities. Weekend afternoons can be busy but have great energy for social kids.
What to Know
Admission and all programming are completely free with a library card (easy to obtain for Hennepin County residents). Ample free parking is available in the adjacent lot. The library is fully accessible and offers gender-neutral family restrooms.
Seasonal Notes
The popular summer reading program runs June through August with special weekly events and performances. Winter months feature indoor craft programs and holiday storytimes. Programming typically scales back during major holidays but the library maintains regular open hours year-round.
Nearby Eats
Kowalski's Market (in the same complex) offers a hot food bar, deli sandwiches, and bakery treats perfect for a quick lunch. For sit-down dining, Good Day Cafe (5 minutes away) serves kid-friendly breakfast and lunch with a relaxed atmosphere and children's menu.
More Activities Near Edina
Bredesen Park
Bredesen Park is a peaceful neighborhood gem in Edina that offers the perfect blend of nature exploration and classic playground fun. Families love the scenic walking trails that circle a tranquil pond where kids can spot turtles, ducks, and other wildlife, while the well-maintained playground and picnic shelters make it ideal for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family gatherings.
Centennial Lakes Park
Centennial Lakes Park is Edina's crown jewel for family fun, offering a stunning 24-acre oasis where kids can paddle boat across scenic lakes, putt through mini golf courses, and splash in fountains during summer. With paved walking paths perfect for strollers, winter ice skating, and beautifully landscaped grounds, this versatile park delivers year-round entertainment that keeps families coming back season after season.
Edina Art Center
The Edina Art Center is a welcoming community art hub where families can create together through hands-on workshops, pottery classes, and seasonal programs. With its highly-rated family workshops and dedicated children's summer camps, it's the perfect spot for budding artists to explore painting, ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media in a supportive, creative environment.
Minnehaha Creek Greenway
The Minnehaha Creek Greenway offers families a beautiful, paved multi-use trail that winds alongside the tranquil Minnehaha Creek through Edina. It's an ideal spot for easy family bike rides, nature walks, or letting kids practice their rollerblading skills in a safe, scenic environment away from traffic. The gentle terrain and peaceful creek views make this trail accessible for even young riders with training wheels.