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Germantown Community Library library in East Shelby County, TN
Photo: Sandra Comas
View of Germantown Community Library in East Shelby County, TN
Photo: Sandra Comas
View of Germantown Community Library in East Shelby County, TN
Photo: Paul Kang

Germantown Community Library

4.4(97 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours for browsing and activities, 30-45 minutes for storytime programs👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive during storytime sessions, preschoolers love the interactive learning spaces, and elementary-aged kids get excited about STEM programs and the popular summer reading challenges.

About

Germantown Community Library is a fantastic free destination for families in East Shelby County, offering far more than just books. With its extensive children's section, regular storytimes, hands-on STEM activities, and interactive learning spaces, this modern library keeps kids engaged while fostering a love of reading and discovery.

Highlights

  • Weekly storytimes for different age groups featuring songs, movement, and early literacy activities
  • Summer reading programs with prizes and challenges that keep kids reading during break
  • Hands-on STEM activities including coding workshops, robotics, and science experiments
  • Extensive children's book collection with comfortable reading nooks and play areas
  • Interactive learning spaces with educational games and technology stations

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Sign up for a library card on your first visit to access all program registrations and check out materials,it's completely free for residents
  2. 2.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for storytimes as they're popular and seating fills up quickly, especially during morning sessions
  3. 3.Check their online calendar before visiting to catch special STEM activities, craft programs, or author visits that require advance registration
  4. 4.Visit on Saturday mornings when family programs are most frequent, or weekday evenings (open until 9 PM Mon-Thurs) for a quieter browsing experience
  5. 5.Download the library app to reserve books and activities ahead of time, plus access free e-books and audiobooks for road trips

Best Time to Visit

Saturday mornings (9:30 AM - noon) offer the most family programming, while Sunday afternoons (1:00 - 6:00 PM) provide a calmer atmosphere for browsing. Avoid Monday-Thursday after 3:30 PM when after-school crowds peak.

What to Know

Admission and all programs are completely free with a library card (free for Shelby County residents). Ample free parking is available, and the facility is fully accessible with family restrooms and nursing-friendly spaces.

Seasonal Notes

The Summer Reading Program (June-July) is the biggest annual event with weekly activities, performances, and prizes. Holiday closures typically include major holidays, so check the website calendar. Special themed storytimes run during Halloween, winter holidays, and spring break.

Nearby Eats

Head to Huey's Germantown (5 minutes away) for kid-friendly burgers and their famous toothpick-in-ceiling tradition, or try McAlister's Deli nearby for quick sandwiches and kid's meals with a more relaxed atmosphere.

More Activities Near East Shelby County

Cafe

Donut Palace Germantown

$

Donut Palace Germantown is a beloved local donut shop that turns breakfast into a special treat for the whole family. Kids will be thrilled watching the bakers at work creating fresh donuts throughout the morning, while parents appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and quality coffee. The variety of colorful, freshly-made donuts plus savory kolaches means there's something to satisfy even picky eaters.

Theater

GPAC | Germantown Performing Arts Center

4.8$$

GPAC brings Broadway-quality entertainment to East Shelby County with a fantastic lineup of children's theater productions, educational performances, and family concerts in a professional yet welcoming setting. With consistently high ratings from families, this performing arts center specializes in age-appropriate programming that introduces kids to the magic of live theater without the intimidation factor of larger venues.

Playground

Woodland Discovery Playground

4.7Free

Woodland Discovery Playground is an award-winning inclusive playground in Cordova that truly lives up to its name, offering an incredible variety of activities for children of all abilities. With multiple slides, climbing structures, zip lines, sand play areas, and fully accessible equipment, this expansive playground ensures every child can participate in the fun and adventure.

Adventure

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

4.7$$$

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park delivers an unforgettable treetop adventure for families seeking active outdoor fun in East Shelby County. With age-appropriate courses ranging from beginner-friendly routes for younger adventurers to challenging aerial obstacles and exhilarating ziplines for teens and adults, this forest canopy experience lets families push their comfort zones together while safely harnessed high above the ground.