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Awesome San Diego Libraries for Kids
Going to the library as a child was always a treat. Now that I’m a parent, it’s exciting to discover what San Diego libraries offer kids. Many have unique areas that offer free activities for kids, clubs, reading incentives and more. In addition to checking out books, apps such as cloudLibrary and Libby are great for accessing eBooks and audiobooks on the go. Libraries also support students and lifelong learners with programs like homework help, tech help and IDEA Labs.
To get a sense of all the library has to offer, read our article “Beyond Books: 20 Reasons to Love the Library” at www.sandiegofamily.com/ resources/education-directory/ beyond-books-20-reasons-tolove-the-library.
With the kiddos starting school, now is an excellent time to get familiar with libraries in your area (and get the kids’ first library cards, if they haven’t registered already). Here are some of our favorite library branches (along with nearby parks for added playtime). Check them out with your family!
Did you know? San Diego has approximately 80 public libraries across the county. The branches are part of eight area library systems: San Diego Public Library, San Diego County Library, Oceanside Public Library, Carlsbad City Library, National City Public Library, Chula Vista Public Library, Coronado Public Library and Escondido Public Library.
Serra Mesa-Kearny Mesa Library
The architecturally beautiful Serra Mesa-Kearny Mesa Library features a children’s library and Fairy Tale Mesa, an outdoor area designed (in partnership with First 5 San Diego) for young kids. Bonus: You can watch airplanes across the street at Montgomery-Gibbs Airport! This branch hosts kidfriendly events such as Baby Toddler Explore Time, Mad Science, Ranger Read-Aloud.
Nearby playground fun: Cabrillo Heights Park is a short drive away and features two playgrounds, one on each end of the park.
San Diego Central Library (Downtown)
The Central Library is one of the most noticeable buildings in Downtown San Diego, with nine stories, unique architecture and a huge dome on top. The 9,000-square-foot Denny Sanford Children’s Library, featuring colorful murals of Dr. Seuss characters, is stocked with games, computers, activities and thousands of books. It also has the Binford I CAN, Too! Center, offering resources and services for children with accessibility and neurodiversity needs.
Other family features of the Central Library include a family restroom, nursing room and the Pauline Foster Teen Center, which has study areas, a game room and computers for ages 12–18 only. Ages 8 & up can use the awesome makerspace and digital arts tools, machines and resources in the IDEA Lab (appointments available). Register for a public tour of the Central Library at www.sandiego.gov/public-library/ central-library/tours.
Nearby playground fun: your visit to the Central Library with an open play day at Gallagher Square Playground at Petco Park. Access the Gallagher Square schedule at www.mlb.com/padres/ ballpark/gallagher-square.
City Heights/Weingart Library
This branch is definitely geared for families and kids! Highlights include a fantastic playroom with great interactives to entertain children, homework center and two family workstations, just for parents and caregivers. The workstations feature a desk with connected play space for a baby or toddler. Programs include Let’s Play (baby/toddler sensory play groups), story time, Science Club, baby signing and more.
Adjacent to this branch is the City Heights Performance Annex & IDEA Lab, a black box venue and theater which hosts cultural performances throughout the year. Their IDEA Lab is a multimedia studio for community training and production.
Nearby playground fun: After visiting the library or annex, spend some time at the Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, right on the property.
Scripps Miramar Ranch Library (Scripps Ranch)
Enjoy stained-glass windows throughout the library, story time in the wonderful children’s indoor amphitheater, and programs such as Girls Who Code, A Book and a Ballerina Storytime, Chess Club and homework help. Then, purchase duck food from Grace’s Book Nook (inside the library) and feed the ducks at Evans Pond just across the parking lot. This branch also has an IDEA Lab with access to a 3D printer, laser cutting machine, Cricut and more.
Nearby playground fun: Head to Lakeview Park to play, while taking in views of Lake Miramar.
Point Loma/Hervey Library
Upon walking into this branch, it will feel like you’re going to set sail on an adventure! The nauticalthemed children and teens section includes a large sailboat reading room, surfboard-shaped tables and a functioning submarine periscope to view the library roof. Programs include Lego Builders Club, Chess Club, Sing & Sign Toddler Storytime and more.
Nearby playground fun: Drive to NTC Park in Liberty Station where there’s a playground near the water. v
Mira Mesa resident Olivia Moore is usually adventuring about San Diego with her two sons, ages 8 and 4. Follow her on IG @SDplaygroundmom.
Photos courtesy of @SDplaygroundmom
Read the full article, which includes the Mission Valley Library, North University Community Library in UTC and the Rancho Peñasquitos Library, at www.sandiegofamily.com/thingsto-do/out-about/best-san-diego-libraries-for-families.
