Makati City Library
About
Located on the eighth floor of Makati City Hall, this community library offers a welcoming children's section with books and educational resources perfect for young readers. It's a quiet, air-conditioned refuge from Manila's heat where kids can explore Filipino and international literature, participate in reading programs, and develop a love for books in a structured learning environment.
Highlights
- ✓Dedicated children's section with age-appropriate books and learning materials
- ✓Free educational reading programs for young learners
- ✓Air-conditioned space perfect for escaping Manila's tropical heat
- ✓Opportunity to experience a local Filipino community institution
- ✓Mix of English and Filipino language resources
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring a valid ID for yourself and photocopies of your passport for library card registration if you plan to borrow books during an extended stay in Manila.
- 2.Visit during weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) when it's typically less crowded and cooler, making browsing more comfortable with children.
- 3.The library is located inside City Hall, so be prepared for security screening at the entrance. Allow extra time and keep electronics easily accessible for inspection.
- 4.English-language books are available but may be limited in the children's section. Filipino books with illustrations can still be enjoyable for non-Tagalog speakers.
- 5.Pack quiet activities or coloring books for younger siblings, as this is a functioning library where noise is discouraged.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9:00-11:00 AM offer the quietest browsing experience before local school groups arrive. Avoid Monday mornings when the library may be busier after the weekend closure.
What to Know
Admission is completely free. The library is located on the eighth floor, so you'll need to take an elevator. Bring water bottles and snacks as there are no food vendors inside the library itself, though the surrounding Makati City Hall area has options.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round Monday through Friday. Closed on weekends and Philippine public holidays, including major celebrations like Independence Day (June 12), Rizal Day (December 30), and Christmas season closures. Check ahead during December and Holy Week in April.
Nearby Eats
Greenbelt Mall, just a short walk away, offers numerous family-friendly dining options including Jollibee (the beloved Filipino fast-food chain kids enjoy), Yellow Cab Pizza, and various food court options with familiar international chains and local favorites.
More Activities Near Makati
Snowball Ice Cream Shop
Snowball Ice Cream Shop is a charming neighborhood parlor in Makati where families can sample creative Filipino-inspired flavors alongside familiar classics. The welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly prices make it an ideal pit stop for families exploring Manila with kids who are eager to try local treats like ube, mango, or buko pandan ice cream.
Makati Shangrila Plaza - Entertainment Zone
Shangri-La Plaza's Entertainment Zone is a climate-controlled paradise for families seeking relief from Manila's heat while keeping kids entertained. This modern complex combines classic arcade games, bowling lanes, and various interactive attractions all under one roof, making it perfect for a full afternoon of family fun without battling traffic between activities.
Ayala Triangle Gardens
Ayala Triangle Gardens is a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Makati's business district, offering families a welcome respite from Manila's urban bustle. Kids can run freely on the open lawns, explore the well-maintained walking paths, and enjoy regular family-friendly events and light shows, making it an easy, no-cost destination for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
Artz Pedregal Garden Shops - Makati Extension
Artz Pedregal Garden Shops in Makati offers families a relaxed outdoor shopping and dining experience with plenty of open spaces for kids to explore. This open-air village combines family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and green areas perfect for letting little ones stretch their legs between meals or shopping stops. The casual atmosphere makes it easy for parents to enjoy a meal or browse while children move freely in a safe, contained environment.