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Franklin Public Library library in Franklin, WI
Photo: Kailyn Gee
View of Franklin Public Library in Franklin, WI
Photo: Dave Shapiro
View of Franklin Public Library in Franklin, WI
Photo: Kailyn Gee

Franklin Public Library

4.5(131 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers enjoy the storytime sessions and board book collection, preschoolers love the interactive programs and play areas, while elementary-aged kids thrive with the STEAM activities, chapter books, and summer reading challenges.

About

Franklin Public Library is a modern, family-friendly library that goes far beyond just books. With an extensive children's section packed with age-appropriate materials, regular storytimes, hands-on STEAM programs, and exciting summer reading challenges, it's a wonderful free resource that keeps kids engaged while fostering a love of learning and reading.

Highlights

  • Regular storytimes that introduce young children to books and early literacy skills
  • Hands-on STEAM programs teaching science, technology, engineering, arts, and math concepts
  • Extensive children's book collection with new releases and classic favorites
  • Summer reading challenges with prizes and incentives to keep kids reading year-round
  • Family-friendly events throughout the year that bring the community together

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Check their online calendar before visiting to catch storytimes (typically mornings) and special STEAM programs that fill up quickly
  2. 2.Visit on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday evenings when they're open until 8 PM for a quieter experience after the after-school rush dies down
  3. 3.Sign up for the summer reading challenge early in June - kids earn prizes and it keeps them reading all summer long
  4. 4.Bring your library card on every visit to check out materials, but guest passes are available if you're visiting from out of town
  5. 5.The children's section has cozy reading nooks perfect for settling in with new finds before you decide what to take home

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) are ideal for attending scheduled storytimes and enjoying the children's section before it gets busy. Saturday mornings work well for working parents but expect more crowds. Avoid the 3-4 PM after-school rush on weekdays.

What to Know

All library services are completely free with a library card (free for Wisconsin residents). Ample free parking is available in the library lot. No food is allowed in the library, but there's a quiet reading area and family restrooms available.

Seasonal Notes

Summer reading programs run June through August and are extremely popular - register early. The library hosts special holiday events around Halloween, winter holidays, and spring break. Reduced Sunday hours (1-4 PM) year-round, closed on major holidays.

Nearby Eats

Head to Culver's (less than 2 miles away) for kid-friendly burgers, chicken tenders, and their famous frozen custard, or visit Noodles & Company nearby for quick, customizable pasta dishes that please picky eaters.

More Activities Near Franklin

Park

Franklin Fire Station # 1

5.0Free

Franklin Fire Station #1 offers families a unique community park experience where kids can enjoy active outdoor play alongside the excitement of seeing real fire trucks and emergency vehicles. With its combination of playground equipment, sports facilities including baseball fields and basketball courts, and covered pavilions, this spot provides plenty of space for both structured activities and free play in a safe neighborhood setting.

Park

Kayla's Playground

4.8Free

Kayla's Playground is a beloved Franklin destination that consistently wows families with its expansive play areas and versatile recreation options. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, this spacious park delivers everything from impressive playground structures that keep kids entertained for hours to wide-open green spaces perfect for impromptu soccer games or kite flying.

Theater

Thelma Sadoff Center For the Arts

4.8$

The Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts is a beloved performing arts venue that brings the magic of live theater to families in the Fond du Lac area. With a carefully curated lineup of children's theater productions, interactive performances, and educational arts programs, this welcoming center creates memorable cultural experiences that spark creativity and imagination in young audiences.

Sports

Franklin Field

4.7Free

Franklin Field is a sprawling multi-sport complex that offers something for every active family member. With its combination of baseball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball courts, well-maintained walking trails, and multiple playgrounds, it's the perfect spot for families who want to spend quality time outdoors whether playing organized sports or just enjoying free play.