When children play, they learn! Play allows young children to develop important skills including physical coordination and language. Play is also one of the five elements (along with sing, talk, read and write) that prepare children to learn to read.

We are excited to add new toys to our Baby Park play area, located in the back of the Children’s Services Department. Thanks to the wonderful generosity of the Friends of Fountaindale, Baby Park has a brand new play kitchen, train table and more for young children to enjoy while in the library.

A white play table with grooved tracks holds several toy trains with red wheels in a children's play area.

Train Table

A playhouse in a library with a toy kitchen and a doll in a crib.

Playhouse

Low bench seating with colorful plastic bins filled with toys or blocks stored on shelves underneath.

Toy Bins

Young child plays with a toy kitchen set with toy food and utensils.

Play Kitchen

Reading Recommendations

After having fun in the Baby Park, check out these books about playtime!

Let’s Play Together!

Children’s Services also offers special events that encourage play. In addition to storytimes, we hope you and your little ones join us for these play-based events.

Baby Ballers
Friday, January 9, 10–11 a.m.
Ages 0–18 months with an adult

Babies, have a ball at the library! Enjoy fun games and activities designed to support motor skill development. Drop in; no registration required.

Discovery Tots
Friday, January 23, 10–11 a.m.
Ages 18 months–5 years with an adult

Explore simple STEAM stations that allow adult and child pairs to discover new sensory experiences in a safe environment. Drop in; no registration required.

Preschool Play: Blueprint Building
Monday, January 26, 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Ages 3–5 with an adult

Become an architect for a day! Draw a blueprint before using blocks of all kinds to build your design in this play-based program for young children. Drop in; no registration required.