Salt Lake City Public Library
About
The Salt Lake City Public Library is a family-friendly haven offering much more than just books. With engaging story times, interactive summer reading programs, and year-round educational events, this highly-rated library (4.5/5 from over 1,000 reviews) provides a wonderful free indoor activity that nurtures young minds while giving parents a comfortable, welcoming space to explore learning with their children.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive children's story times with songs, movement, and age-appropriate books
- ✓Award-winning summer reading programs with prizes and incentives
- ✓Extensive children's book collection including picture books, early readers, and young adult titles
- ✓Family-oriented educational events and workshops throughout the year
- ✓Quiet, air-conditioned space perfect for rainy days or hot summer afternoons
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for story times as they're popular and seating fills quickly, especially during morning sessions
- 2.Sign up for a free library card online before your visit to save time and immediately access all programs and resources
- 3.Check the library's event calendar online before visiting to catch special family programs, crafts, or educational workshops that align with your kids' interests
- 4.Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 10 AM-noon) for the quietest browsing experience with fewer crowds
- 5.Take advantage of the summer reading program which offers free books, prizes, and motivation to keep kids reading during school breaks
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10 AM-noon) Tuesday through Thursday offer the calmest atmosphere for browsing. Saturday mornings are perfect if you want to attend story times and family events, though expect more crowds. Late afternoons Monday-Wednesday work well for after-school visits when special programs are often scheduled.
What to Know
Admission and all programming are completely free, though donations are welcomed. Street parking and nearby public lots are available. The library is fully accessible with strollers and wheelchairs, and offers family restrooms and nursing-friendly spaces.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs (June-August) are the library's biggest draw with special events, performances, and reading challenges. The library is closed on major holidays. Winter months offer cozy indoor story times perfect for cold Utah days, while spring often features author visits and literacy celebrations.
Nearby Eats
The Library Square area downtown offers The City Library Café inside for quick snacks, or walk a few blocks to The Red Iguana (kid-friendly Mexican with mild options) or Squatters Pub Brewery (family-friendly with a kids' menu and casual atmosphere).
More Activities Near North Salt Lake
North Orchard Drive
North Orchard Drive is a hidden gem among North Salt Lake's neighborhood parks, offering families a peaceful retreat from busier playgrounds. This low-key park features playground equipment suited for younger children, plenty of open green space for running around or picnicking, and a quieter atmosphere that makes it ideal for families with toddlers or those seeking a more relaxed park experience.
Viewmont High School
Viewmont High School opens its track and sports facilities to the community, providing families with a safe, well-maintained space for outdoor exercise and play. The track is perfect for kids learning to ride bikes, parents pushing strollers, or families looking to get active together without the pressure of a formal gym setting.
Coliseum Fitness
Coliseum Fitness is a welcoming community recreation center that goes beyond typical gym offerings with family-focused amenities perfect for active families. With dedicated family swim times, youth programs, and a variety of fitness classes suitable for different ages, it's an ideal spot for getting the whole family moving together year-round, rain or shine.
Eaglewood Golf Course
Eaglewood Golf Course is an ideal spot to introduce kids to the sport of golf in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. With dedicated junior programs, patient instruction for beginners, and breathtaking mountain views that make the experience memorable, this public course welcomes families who want to learn together or enjoy a leisurely round while the kids develop new skills.