If you’re searching for a dynamic and exciting place to enjoy quality family time, turn to Bloomington Public Library. The Library’s Children’s Department offers entertaining and educational programming, interactive activity kits, and shelves full of books and graphic novels which are sure to spark interest and curiosity in readers of all ages.
Student Library Accounts
Bloomington Public Library and Normal Public Library partner with District 87 and Unit 5 to provide a Student Library Account to any student who does not already possess an existing library account. Student Accounts allow check out of up to three physical items from the library, access to all the library’s online resources, and use of the teenZone for those in Grades 6-12. Any Student Account can be upgraded to a full-access Library Card if the student’s parent or guardian visits the Library with the student and proof of their current Bloomington address.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten Reading Program
It is never too early to start reading to kids! An early predictor of school achievement is being read to during childhood, and Bloomington Public Library’s 1000 Books Before Kindergarten reading program is here to help. This year-round, continuous program is designed to help parents and caregivers prepare children for kindergarten. Children age newborn to 5 years who have not yet started kindergarten may join this self-paced program.
To get started, stop by the Children’s Department and pick up a reading log, or print your reading log from home using the PDFs below. (Each reading log represents 100 books toward your goal.) As your child celebrates completing 100 books, 500 books, and finally 1000 books, their name will be added to our wall and they’ll receive a special tote bag reserved for those who reach the 1000-book milestone. For questions or help call 309.828.6091 or email reference@bloomingtonlibrary.org.
Use these links to print your reading logs from home:
Events for Kids & Teens
Toddlers are always on the go! Come to story time to encourage their emerging skills with books, rhymes, music, and lots of movement activities.
Disclaimer(s)
Daycares
Due to limited space in the Children's Program Rooms, groups (such as daycare centers) interested in story times need to make arrangements in advance by contacting the Children's Services Desk by phone at 309.590.6155 or e-mail at childrensstaff@bloomingtonlibrary.org.
This inclusive story time offers stories, songs, and sensory-focused activities for children of all ages and abilities! After story time, stay for sensory play and socialization.
This Dungeons & Dragons experience for kids in grades 3-5 will include a simplified, rules-light adventure.
Join us every Friday from September 13 - November 22, for a 30-minute, all-ages story time in Children's Program Rooms 1-2. We'll enjoy music, lots of movement, stories, and FUN!
Disclaimer(s)
Daycares
Due to limited space in the Children's Program Rooms, groups (such as daycare centers) interested in story times need to make arrangements in advance by contacting the Children's Services Desk by phone at 309.590.6155 or e-mail at childrensstaff@bloomingtonlibrary.org.
Join us for Lego Construction, and have your picture taken with your creation. The challenge is to build whatever you want!
Teens will design silhouettes on a computer, which will then be cut out on the Glowforge Laser Engraver or Cricut Machine to create the beginnings of a greeting card.
Join us for help filling out your FAFSA* for the 2025-2026 School Year. A representative from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission will be at the library to assist students and their families.
Does your child have a stuffed animal who would love to come to a sleepover at the library?
Have you ever heard a song and said to yourself, "I wonder how they got this to sound like that!"
Well, now is the time to find out!
This Dungeons & Dragons experience for kids in grades 3-5 will include a simplified, rules-light adventure.
The Magic of Raina Telgemeier Watch Party
Teens and older elementary-school-aged children are invited to join us for an in-person watch party featuring your favorite graphic novelist Raina Telgemeier!