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Hopkins Library library in Hopkins, MN
Photo: Hopkins Library
View of Hopkins Library in Hopkins, MN
Photo: Gabriel Ratliff
View of Hopkins Library in Hopkins, MN
Photo: Molly M

Hopkins Library

4.6(97 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive at storytimes and early literacy programs, preschoolers enjoy the interactive play spaces and picture book collection, while elementary-aged kids love the summer reading challenges and educational activities.

About

Hopkins Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering families a fantastic array of free programs and activities. With its extensive children's collection, regular storytimes, and engaging summer reading programs, this modern library creates a nurturing environment where kids can explore, learn, and develop a lifelong love of reading.

Highlights

  • Regular storytimes that engage young children with interactive reading sessions
  • Extensive children's book collection spanning board books to young adult fiction
  • Popular summer reading programs with incentives and activities
  • Educational workshops and STEM activities for various age groups
  • Comfortable reading nooks and community spaces perfect for family browsing

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Call ahead or check the library website for storytime schedules,they fill up quickly during popular time slots and some require registration
  2. 2.Visit on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday evenings when the library stays open until 8 PM for a less crowded, more relaxed browsing experience
  3. 3.Sign up for a library card on your first visit to access the full children's collection, plus take advantage of free digital resources and educational apps
  4. 4.Bring a reusable bag for checking out books,kids get excited and the selections can get heavy!
  5. 5.Ask staff about upcoming special programs and events; they often host educational activities, craft sessions, and themed reading events throughout the year

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (Thursday through Saturday from 9-11 AM) tend to be quieter for browsing, while scheduled storytimes offer structured engagement. Evening hours on Monday-Wednesday work well for working parents looking to wind down with kids after school.

What to Know

Completely free to visit and use (library card required for checkouts but free to obtain with proof of residency). Ample parking available on-site, and the library offers accessible facilities and a comfortable family-friendly community space.

Seasonal Notes

Summer reading programs (typically June-August) are a major highlight with special themes, prizes, and weekly activities. The library may have modified hours during major holidays, so check ahead during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's weeks.

Nearby Eats

Head to Jefe Urban Hacienda (5-minute drive) for family-friendly Mexican food with a kids menu, or try downtown Hopkins' Main Street which has several casual eateries within walking distance including pizza and sandwich shops perfect for post-library lunch.

More Activities Near Hopkins

Adventure

Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail

Free

Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail offers families a beautifully maintained paved path perfect for introducing kids to biking adventures or enjoying a leisurely stroller walk. The scenic creek views and gentle terrain make it ideal for all skill levels, from toddlers just learning to balance to older kids ready to log some serious miles on their bikes.

Theater

Hopkins Center For the Arts

4.7$$

The Hopkins Center for the Arts brings culture and creativity to families through engaging theater productions, hands-on art classes, and seasonal camps in a welcoming historic building. Located in the heart of downtown Hopkins, this community arts hub offers year-round programming designed to spark imagination and introduce children to the performing and visual arts in an accessible, family-friendly atmosphere.

Park

Burnes Park

4.6Free

Burnes Park is a quintessential neighborhood gem in Hopkins that delivers everything active families need for an afternoon of outdoor fun. With its well-maintained playground equipment, multiple sports courts and fields, and generous open spaces for running around, this park offers the perfect mix of structured play and free exploration that keeps kids entertained for hours.

Park

Cottageville Park

4.6Free

Cottageville Park is a welcoming Hopkins neighborhood gem that offers everything families need for a classic park day. With well-maintained playground structures for multiple age groups, open sports fields perfect for pickup games, and shaded walking paths for stroller-pushing parents, this 4.6-star park provides a comfortable outdoor escape without traveling far from the western suburbs.