Children's Areas

Downtown Library Children's Area

Climb through the DISCOVER Wall’s tunnels, sit in its cozy reading nooks, and then explore the rest of the children’s area beyond the wall. The Children’s Book Neighborhood is designed for all children and their families or caregivers. A wall of windows at the south side of the building provides natural light and a view of trees and plants to this bright, colorful space.

Children learn through play, this space also offers lots of toys, games, lifesize blocks, and other ways to play. From developmentally appropriate toys for babies and toddlers to collaborative gaming systems for older children, there is something for every child. Parenting books are available to help families support their children’s growth.

Southeast Branch Family Place Library

The Arlington Public Library was formally designated as a Family Place Library on Thursday, December 8, 2016. Family Place Libraries is a network of children’s librarians who believe that literacy begins at birth and that libraries can help build healthy communities by nourishing healthy families.

A Family Place Library has a welcoming space for children at its core. The Southeast Branch now features a family-friendly play area, full of toys for children ages 0 to 5. These toys are always available. Children use developmentally-appropriate toys such as blocks, costumes, puppets, and a toy kitchen whenever the Library is open.

The Family Place Library designation establishes the Southeast Branch as a hub for parent and community involvement. The Library plans to extend its participation in Family Place Libraries to other branches throughout the City.

This statewide project is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the provision of the Library Services and Technology Act (2016), and in part by a State-funded grant from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

Learn more about Family Place Libraries at http://www.familyplacelibraries.org/.

East Arlington Branch Gene and Jerry Jones Youth Technology Center

The Gene and Jerry Jones Youth Technology Center, is a chance for families enjoy time together while using Library resources. Parents will also be able to check out a laptop at the front desk to use. This will allow families to stay together in the same space while adults work and children play.

The East Arlington Branch will also be offering more classes and workshops in the Family Learning Lab. Keep an eye out for adult education classes such as English as a Second Language as they move into the Family Learning Lab.