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M.R. Davis Public Library library in Southaven, MS
Photo: Brian Schneider
View of M.R. Davis Public Library in Southaven, MS
Photo: T Sloan
View of M.R. Davis Public Library in Southaven, MS
Photo: Crystal Walton

M.R. Davis Public Library

4.6(136 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive in story time sessions, preschoolers enjoy interactive learning programs, and elementary-aged kids can dive into summer reading challenges and themed educational activities throughout the year.

About

M.R. Davis Public Library is a wonderful community hub that goes far beyond books, offering an impressive lineup of children's programs designed to engage young minds. With its modern facilities and highly-rated story times, summer reading challenges, and hands-on educational activities, this library has become a favorite destination for Southaven families looking for enriching (and free!) entertainment.

Highlights

  • Engaging story time sessions with animated readings and songs
  • Summer reading challenges with prizes and incentives
  • Extensive children's book collection with cozy reading areas
  • Regular educational programs and STEM activities
  • Friendly, knowledgeable staff who provide excellent book recommendations

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Call ahead or check their website for story time schedules,these popular sessions fill up quickly, especially during mornings on weekdays
  2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) for quieter browsing and more one-on-one attention from staff during drop-in activities
  3. 3.Sign up for the summer reading program early in May to get the best selection of prizes and track your child's progress throughout the season
  4. 4.Take advantage of extended Monday-Thursday hours (until 8:00 PM) for after-dinner visits when younger siblings might be calmer
  5. 5.Don't overlook the educational activity kits available for checkout,they're perfect for extending the learning at home

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (9:30-11:00 AM) Tuesday through Thursday are ideal for attending scheduled story times and encountering smaller crowds. Saturday mornings work well for working parents, though expect more families. Avoid the lunch hour rush around noon.

What to Know

The library is completely free to visit with no admission charges. Parking is readily available on-site. While food and drinks aren't typically allowed in library spaces, you can take snack breaks outside or in designated areas.

Seasonal Notes

Summer is peak season with the popular annual reading challenge running June through July. Special holiday-themed story times and activities occur around Halloween, Christmas, and other major holidays. Note Sunday hours are limited (2:00-5:00 PM) year-round.

Nearby Eats

Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread are both within a mile on Goodman Road, offering quick, kid-friendly meals. For pizza, try Mellow Mushroom nearby for a fun atmosphere with coloring activities for kids.

More Activities Near Southaven

Shopping

Tanger Outlets Southaven

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Tanger Outlets Southaven offers a surprisingly family-friendly shopping experience with over 70 brand-name stores at discount prices, making it perfect for parents who need to outfit growing kids without breaking the bank. Beyond shopping, the outlet mall hosts seasonal events throughout the year and features a pleasant outdoor layout that gives restless children room to move between stores.

Sports

Southaven Recreation Center

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Southaven Recreation Center is a community hub offering year-round family fun at budget-friendly prices. From youth sports leagues and energizing fitness classes to engaging summer camps, this versatile facility provides activities for kids of all ages while parents can join in or relax knowing their children are in a safe, well-maintained environment.

Entertainment

Malco Desoto Cinema Grill

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Malco Desoto Cinema Grill offers families a comfortable movie-going experience with the added convenience of in-theater dining. With plush seating and the latest family-friendly films, parents can enjoy a relaxing outing while kids are entertained by big-screen blockbusters and kid favorites without breaking the bank.

Trampoline Park

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

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Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park in Southaven is the ultimate indoor destination for burning energy year-round. With wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits, climbing walls, and a dedicated toddler zone, there's something to keep every age group jumping, climbing, and playing for hours in a climate-controlled environment.