Photo: Melissa Wiley
Photo: Peggy Murdock
Photo: Kerry-Ann Parsons
Chester Library - Chesterfield Public Library
★4.8(99 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive during interactive storytimes with songs and movement, preschoolers enjoy themed craft programs, and elementary-aged kids love the summer reading challenges and independent chapter book selections.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Chester Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering interactive storytimes, hands-on craft programs, and engaging summer reading challenges that keep kids excited about learning. With its extensive children's section and year-round family programming, it's a perfect rainy-day destination or regular stop for families looking to foster a love of reading while connecting with other local parents.
Highlights
- ✓Weekly storytimes with songs, movement, and age-appropriate tales
- ✓Hands-on craft programs that kids can take home
- ✓Extensive children's section with cozy reading nooks and colorful displays
- ✓Summer reading program with prizes and themed activities
- ✓Educational play areas and puzzles for younger children
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for storytime sessions as they fill up quickly, especially during popular Friday morning slots
- 2.Sign up for the library's email newsletter to get advance notice of special author visits, holiday crafts, and summer reading kickoff events
- 3.Download the library app before your visit so kids can help scan and check out their own books, making them feel more independent
- 4.Visit on weekday mornings right when they open for the quietest browsing time and best selection of new arrivals
- 5.Ask librarians about their rotating STEM activity kits and educational toy collection available for checkout,hidden gems many families don't know about
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9:30-11:00 AM are ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, coinciding with scheduled storytimes and fewer crowds. Saturday mornings work well for working families but tend to be busier.
What to Know
The library is completely free to use with a library card (also free for residents), features accessible entrances and facilities, and has dedicated nursing/quiet rooms for families with infants. Parking is plentiful in the adjacent lot.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs run June through August with weekly themes and special events. Holiday craft sessions are offered around major holidays. The library is closed Sundays year-round, so plan accordingly for weekend visits.
Nearby Eats
Chester Burger Company (5 minutes away) offers classic kid-friendly burgers and milkshakes in a casual atmosphere. Chick-fil-A at Chester Village Shopping Center provides quick, reliable options with a play area for post-library energy burning.
More Activities Near Chester
Adventure
Appomattox River Trail
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The Appomattox River Trail offers families a peaceful escape into nature with over 10 miles of paved, multi-use trails perfect for biking, walking, or scootering alongside the scenic river. Kids will love spotting turtles, herons, and other wildlife while exploring the woodlands, and the relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for even young riders and stroller-pushing parents.
Park
Legends Park at Chester
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Legends Park at Chester is a well-rounded community park that checks all the boxes for an active family day outdoors. With its playground equipment for various ages, scenic walking trails perfect for stroller walks or family hikes, and spacious open fields ideal for flying kites or playing catch, it's a local favorite for Chester families. The picnic shelters make it an excellent spot for birthday parties or casual family gatherings without needing reservations at indoor venues.
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Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge
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Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge offers families a wonderful blend of nature exploration and outdoor adventure on Long Island's North Fork. Kids can discover diverse habitats including sandy beaches, forest trails, and tidal lagoons teeming with wildlife, while enjoying a scenic playground of barrier beach and coastal ecosystem perfect for hands-on learning and adventure.
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Pocahontas State Park
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Pocahontas State Park is a sprawling 7,950-acre outdoor playground that offers something for every member of the family. With a refreshing swimming pool, modern playgrounds, over 64 miles of trails for hiking and biking, plus camping facilities, this highly-rated park delivers endless opportunities for adventure just minutes from Richmond. The combination of water fun, outdoor exploration, and well-maintained amenities makes it a go-to destination for active families.