Best Libraries for Kids in Orange County
Although some libraries around Orange County contain just a large quantity of books, others stand as a doorway to an unlocking the imagination and creativity of children of all ages. Through beautiful spaces, story time hours, homework help, reading programs, and more, these libraries in Orange County will help inspire the curious bookworm in all your children.
Mission Viejo Library
100 Civic Center
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
(949) 830-7100
www.cityofmissionviejo.com
Independent of the OC library system, The Mission Viejo Library features a variety of Early Literacy programs for children from six months and up. A variety of family friendly events are offered throughout the year as well, including story times, summer reading programs, and holiday events, and the play area for kids includes not only an expansive amount of books, but also fun toys, puzzles, and games for little ones of all ages.
Cerritos Public Library
18025 Bloomfield Ave.
Cerritos, CA 90703
(562) 916-1350
menu.ci.cerritos.ca.us
Winner of numerous awards and accolades, the futuristic and titanium clad Cerritos Public Library is arguably the best library for kids in Southern California. So much more than just a stack of books, the library boasts a massive saltwater aquarium, lighthouse play station, "Stan" the giant T-Rex statue, space shuttle replica, theatre, art studio, and more. Regular programs for kids, including story times, puppet shows, art classes, and aquarium interactions. Outdoors, kids will love playing in the zero entry fountains on a hot day.
Huntington Beach Central Public Library
7111 Talbert Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 842-4481
www.huntingtonbeachca.gov
As one of the largest libraries in the OC, the Huntington Beach Central Public Library boasts a beautiful connection with the nature as it features an indoor garden, plenty of natural light, and fountains that trickle with the gentle noise of running water. The kid's department features a wide variety of family-friendly events and story times, and even the youngest of visitors will enjoy the aquarium and toddler toys housed in a cute ship. Don't miss the holiday performances.
Newport Beach Public Library
1000 Avocado Ave.
Newport Beach, CA 92663
(949) 717-3800
www.newportbeachlibrary.org
Located across from Fashion Island, The Newport Beach Library is a great place to take your book loving kiddos. Story times are offered on a weekly basis to kids as young as six months, and non-readers will love the simple puzzles and games located throughout the kids section. Take a break from the indoors to visit the adjacent garden and nature trails; if you are hungry, grab a bite to eat from Bistro 24 express, the onsite cafe featuring a variety of healthy grab and go items.
Sherman Library & Gardens
2647 East Pacific Coast Highway
Corona del Mar, CA 92625
(949) 673-2261
www.slgardens.org
Although the research collection of Pacific Southwest U.S. history books at the Sherman Library might not inspire the youngest visitors, the two-acre botanical gardens is sure to wow every member of your family. Kids will love visiting the Koi pond during feeding time as well as the chance to grab a tasty crepe to enjoy while walking through the garden. Kids as young as elementary age can take advantage of the easy access to an expansive amount of free research materials on site for California history.
Aliso Viejo Library
1 Journey
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
(949) 360-1730
ocpl.org/libloc/aliso
Upon entering the Aliso Viejo branch of the OC Public Library, you'll notice the expansiveness of this special library. What's more is the separate children's library department which boasts a wide variety of books for your little ones. Preschool, toddler, and elementary story times are offered weekly as well, including story times in languages other than English.
