Photo: Bedford Public Library
Photo: Adhish Shakya
Photo: Veronica Gonzalez
Bedford Public Library
★4.7(320 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive in the story time sessions with songs and movement, preschoolers enjoy interactive programs and puppet shows, while elementary-aged kids love the summer reading challenges, STEM activities, and age-appropriate book clubs.🧡 Saved by 44 families
About
Bedford Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books, offering dynamic children's programs that make learning fun and engaging. With highly-rated story times, interactive summer reading challenges, and creative educational events throughout the year, it's a perfect free destination for families looking to spark their children's love of reading and discovery.
Highlights
- ✓Engaging story time sessions with songs, movement, and age-appropriate books
- ✓Summer reading challenges with prizes and incentives to keep kids reading year-round
- ✓Well-stocked children's section with cozy reading nooks and interactive displays
- ✓Free educational programs including STEM activities, craft sessions, and puppet shows
- ✓Access to computers, tablets, and educational games for kids
Pro Tips
- 1.Sign up for a library card before your first visit online to save time and immediately access programs and digital resources
- 2.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for popular story time sessions as seating can fill up quickly, especially during morning programs
- 3.Check the library's event calendar online before visiting to catch special programs like author visits, craft sessions, or holiday-themed activities
- 4.Visit on Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday evenings when hours extend to 8:00 PM for a quieter, less crowded experience after the after-school rush subsides
- 5.Download the library's app to place holds on popular children's books and get notifications when they're ready for pickup
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday or Friday 9:30-11:30 AM) are ideal for attending story times and enjoying a peaceful browsing experience. Saturday mornings offer great programming but draw larger crowds. Monday and Thursday evenings work well for working parents who need flexible visit times.
What to Know
The library is completely free to use with plenty of parking available in the lot. Bathrooms are family-friendly and accessible. While there's no café, you're welcome to bring water bottles, and the children's area features comfortable seating for parents.
Seasonal Notes
The Summer Reading Program (June-July) is the library's flagship event with weekly activities, performances, and reading incentives. Holiday-themed story times and craft programs are offered around Halloween, Thanksgiving, and December. The library closes on major holidays and Sundays are shortened hours (1-5 PM).
Nearby Eats
Chick-fil-A and Raising Cane's are both within a mile on Airport Freeway, offering quick kid-friendly meals. For sit-down dining, try BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (1.5 miles away) which has an extensive kids' menu and relaxed family atmosphere.
More Activities Near Bedford
Park
Meadow Park Drive
Free
Meadow Park Drive offers families a peaceful neighborhood park setting perfect for active outdoor play and special celebrations. With versatile playground equipment, plenty of open lawn for running and games, and shaded pavilions ideal for hosting birthday parties, this Bedford park provides a relaxed atmosphere where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy the scenic walking trails.
Park
Harris Ryals Park
Free
Harris Ryals Park is a welcoming neighborhood park in Bedford that offers families a perfect spot for outdoor play and relaxation. With its playground equipment, spacious grassy areas, and walking paths, it's an ideal destination for letting kids burn energy while parents enjoy the park's peaceful atmosphere. The community-focused setting makes it a favorite among local Bedford families looking for a convenient outdoor escape.
Park
The Trailhead at Clearfork
★4.8Free❤️104
The Trailhead at Clearfork is a vibrant community hub that combines outdoor play with family-friendly dining and shopping options. This well-maintained park offers playground facilities, sports amenities, and plenty of open green space for kids to run and explore, all while parents can enjoy the on-site café and browse the farmers market when available.
Park
Chisholm Park
★4.7Free❤️103
Chisholm Park is a beloved Bedford-area gem that consistently delights families with its well-maintained facilities and thoughtful amenities. With modern playground equipment, sports courts, and plenty of shaded picnic areas, it's the perfect spot for everything from quick afternoon play sessions to full family outings with packed lunches.