The library is an amazing FREE resource available to families in it's community. Palatine is no exception. If you have ever been to the Palatine Library you would be fast to find out they are much more than just a place to check out books or study for an exam. Actually there's probably a lot the library offers that you might not even know about. My family visits the library almost weekly and to this day am still learning everything they have available for families. Here are 7 things you might not have known about the Palatine Library.
- Programs/Storytimes: The library offers a variety of FREE programs and weekly storytimes for all ages. Pick an age appropriate storytime to enjoy a book or 2 with other families in that age group. Not only does your little one get exposure to books and reading but they also get to interact with other kids the same age...plus you get a chance to talk to other adults and that's always a bonus! They also offer programs such as drop in crafts, special Built It! sessions where kids can express their creative engineering side and build using the libraries collection of Tinker Toys and Magformers, and gaming nights where kids can come challenge one another to video games and more.
The Teen Lounge: There's a whole area in the back corner of the youth area on the first floor that is dedicated to teens. They can lounge on a couch and crack open a book or sit at one of the high top tables and study for a test. There's even a big screen TV and they can use their library card to play PS4.- The Youth Area: No joke the Palatine Libraries youth area appeals to kids of all ages and every time we go I have to pull my kids away when it is time to leave. They have an iPad station where children can play educational games. There's a large open area by the story time rooms that is geared toward infants through preschool and it encourages then to learn though play with numerous hand-on activities and exploratory opportunities. If the kids need to use a computer or the internet...not a problem! There's at least 8 computers available for their use. If your child has a collection they would like to share then talk with someone at the Youth service desk. They have a glass cabinet where your child can set up their collection for a certain period of time for library patrons to view.
- Museum Adventure Pass: Want to visit a museum but don't want to pay an arm and a leg? Check the library first! They offer FREE or discounted tickets to area museums. To see a list of museum and passes offered click HERE. Always call first before stopping by the library to make sure the passes you are interested in are available. Some are very popular and they are offered on a first come first serve basis. The number to call is 847-358-5881.
- Hoopla & Other Online Resources: Hoopla is an online resource offered by the library. If you are a Palatine Library cardholder you can sign up online or download the free mobile app and all you have to do is enter your card number and pin to stream digital video, music and audiobooks. They also offer ebooks and audiobooks for adults through My Media Mall and the OverDrive app. From the library website you can also access e-books for kids through TumbleBooks that are animated, talking books.
- Save in September: Show your library card to local businesses and receive a discount. View participating businesses HERE
- Check Out More Than Just Books: When you hear library most people automatically think books, but the Palatine library offers many other items for check out including-
- Roku: Check it out for two weeks and have access to Netflix, Vudu and much more.
- STEAM Kits: Check out fun themed STEAM kits and have fun learning and exploring at home.
- Storytime Bags: Bring home a themed bag loaded with all the essentials to have your own storytime.
- Board Games: All your favorite board games are available to check out
- CD's and DVD's: From new releases to older classics, if you are looking for a movie, start at the library.
- eReaders: 20 Kindle eReaders are preloaded with dozens of books in several genres.
- Book Club in a Bag: You can check out a bag filled with books and discussion questions for a whole week to host your own book club.
If you haven't visited the library recently check it out. It's a FREE way to entertain and exhaust your kids. It's educational and fun; learn while you play and play while you learn. Go to get work done or maybe just for a playdate. Whatever you do, just go. It's an establishment that is there to enrich the community so take advantage!
Palatine Library
700 N North Court, Palatine
847-358-5881
www.palatinelibrary.org
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Macaroni Kid CaryGrove-Barrington-Palatine is a free weekly e-newsletter, online calendar and website focused on kids' activities, family fun events, parenting resources and information relevant to families in Palatine, Barrington, Fox River Grove, and Cary, IL. We compile all local family events and activities each week, and add useful information about family-centered businesses, product and business reviews, recipes, crafts, resource guides and more.
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