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
Are you a teen who's looking for a fun activity this winter break? Join us in TeenZone during any of the library's open hours from December 23-January 6 to make coffee filter snowflakes!
During any of the library's open hours from Friday, December 21-Monday, January 6, children are invited to join us in the Children's Department for winter-themed crafts and activities, as well as Penguin Bingo. There is no need to regis
Teens in Grades 6-12 are invited to join us for a different craft on each of the no-school days listed below.
Join Communication Junction at Bloomington Public Library for a 30-minute Sign + Sing Story Time with a Bedtime theme. We will be signing, singing, and reading books! This story time is geared for children ages 0-5 years old.
Are you a teen who's looking for a fun activity this winter break? Join us in TeenZone during any of the library's open hours from December 23-January 6 to make coffee filter snowflakes!
During any of the library's open hours from Friday, December 20-Monday, January 6, children are invited to join us in the Children's Department for winter-themed crafts and activities, as well as Penguin Bingo. There is no need to regis
It's chilly outside, so why not warm up with a "drive-in" movie at the library?!
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.
We're doubling the fun as we celebrate both the New Year and Ms. Alex's birthday!
There will be a variety of activities for kids ages 0-11, snacks, party favors, and take home crafts.
Join us for an all-ages, raucous story time extravaganza. Come to the Children's Program Rooms the first Saturday of January and February at 10am to dance, listen to music, read stories, and have a wondrous time.
In this program, teens will play through a D&D adventure full of twists and turns!
Before the new semester begins, teens are invited to come to the library to enjoy the last day of Winter Break with an evening showing of a holiday film. Join us for cocoa, snacks, and a cozy movie!
This Dungeons & Dragons experience for kids in grades 3-5 will include a simplified, rules-light adventure.