Skip to main content
Sign In
Ajax Public Library - Main Branch library in Ajax, ON
Photo: Google
View of Ajax Public Library - Main Branch in Ajax, ON
Photo: Google
View of Ajax Public Library - Main Branch in Ajax, ON
Photo: Google

Ajax Public Library - Main Branch

4.7(249 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-14. Babies and toddlers enjoy story time sessions, preschoolers love the interactive learning area, school-age kids can explore the extensive book collection and participate in programs, while teens have dedicated activities and spaces designed just for them.

About

Ajax Public Library's Main Branch is a welcoming, modern community hub perfect for families traveling to the Greater Toronto Area. With its dedicated children's learning area featuring interactive resources, regular story times, and extensive kids' programming, it's an ideal rainy day destination or quiet break from sightseeing. The highly-rated facility offers a comfortable, air-conditioned space where children can explore, learn, and participate in structured activities while parents relax.

Highlights

  • Free weekly story times and early literacy programs for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers
  • Interactive children's learning area with educational resources and activities
  • Dedicated teen zone with age-appropriate programming and activities
  • Extensive collection of children's books, including picture books and chapter books
  • Free WiFi and computer access for international visitors

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Check the library's online calendar before visiting to catch scheduled story times, craft sessions, or special programs that typically run weekday mornings and afternoons.
  2. 2.Visitors from abroad can access WiFi and computers without a library card, making this a great spot to check travel plans or let kids use educational programs.
  3. 3.Parking is available on-site, but the library is also accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT) for families exploring without a rental car.
  4. 4.The children's area gets busiest during after-school hours (3:00-5:00 PM), so visit mid-morning for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
  5. 5.Bring your passport or ID if you want to sign up for a temporary visitor's library card to borrow books during your stay in the area.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings between 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM are ideal, when scheduled programs are often running and the library is less crowded. Avoid after-school hours (3:00-6:00 PM) on weekdays when local families fill the space. Weekend mornings are also pleasant but can be busy.

What to Know

Admission and all programs are completely free. Parking is available on-site at no charge. The library does not have food service, but you'll find restaurants and cafes within walking distance in Ajax's downtown area.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent programming. The library may have reduced hours or special closures during Canadian holidays like Canada Day (July 1), Thanksgiving (second Monday in October), and Boxing Day (December 26). Summer reading programs and special vacation activities typically run July and August.

Nearby Eats

Head to Harwood Avenue's dining district within walking distance for family options like Boston Pizza (classic kid-friendly chain with pasta and pizza) or Tim Hortons (Canadian icon for quick snacks, Timbits donut holes, and hot chocolate).

More Activities Near Ajax

Nature

South Pickering Beach Conservation Area

Free

South Pickering Beach Conservation Area offers families an accessible introduction to Canadian wetland ecosystems with easy marsh boardwalk trails perfect for little explorers. Kids can spot local birds, turtles, and waterfowl while learning about the unique Great Lakes ecosystem through educational signage, making it an ideal outdoor classroom combined with peaceful nature time.

Park

Duffin Creek Park

Free

Duffin Creek Park is a nature lover's paradise offering expansive trails perfect for family hikes, a scenic creek where kids can splash and explore, and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. This free outdoor destination provides hours of affordable adventure with plenty of space for picnics, nature walks, and teaching kids about local ecosystems in a hands-on environment.

Adventure

Waterfront Trail

The Waterfront Trail in Ajax offers 20 kilometers of paved, scenic pathways along the shores of Lake Ontario, ideal for family bike rides, stroller walks, and outdoor exploration. With multiple access points and relatively flat terrain, families can customize their adventure to match their energy levels while enjoying beach areas, parks, and stunning water views along the way.

Playground

Kidz Fun Centre

4.8

Kidz Fun Centre is a popular indoor playground in Ajax offering a safe, climate-controlled environment perfect for burning energy year-round. With climbing structures, slides, and dedicated zones for different age groups, this highly-rated facility (4.8/5 stars) provides hours of active play while parents can relax in comfortable seating areas.